What is sodium levulinate?

Sodium levulinate is a preservative booster derived from levulinic acid. It's used in formulas to help extend shelf life and reduce the need for traditional preservatives.

Is sodium levulinate safe?

Published safety data is limited but supportive, with no documented concerns at cosmetic use levels. It's a newer ingredient, so long-term data is smaller than for established preservatives.

preservative · antioxidant

Sodium Levulinate

Generally safe·Moderate evidence

A preservative booster and antioxidant derived from natural sugars. Often used alongside other preservatives to enhance efficacy and extend shelf life.

Questions

What is sodium levulinate?: Sodium levulinate is a preservative booster derived from levulinic acid. It's used in formulas to help extend shelf life and reduce the need for traditional preservatives.
Is sodium levulinate safe?: Published safety data is limited but supportive, with no documented concerns at cosmetic use levels. It's a newer ingredient, so long-term data is smaller than for established preservatives.

Products with Sodium Levulinate

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.