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Ingredient Information

Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium-Hydroxide

Sodium Hydroxide, also known as caustic soda or lye, is a highly caustic and versatile chemical compound. It is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaOH. Sodium Hydroxide is widely used in various industries, including personal care products, due to its ability to adjust pH levels, facilitate chemical reactions, and act as a strong cleaning agent.

Sodium Hydroxide in personal care products:
  • pH Adjuster: Sodium Hydroxide is commonly used in personal care products as a pH adjuster. It is an alkali substance that can increase the pH of a formulation, making it more basic. By adjusting the pH, Sodium Hydroxide helps to optimize the effectiveness of other ingredients and ensure the stability of the product.
  • Soap and Cleanser Production: Sodium Hydroxide plays a crucial role in the production of soaps and cleansers. In a process called saponification, Sodium Hydroxide reacts with fats or oils to form soap molecules. This chemical reaction breaks down the fats or oils into glycerin and fatty acid salts, resulting in the formation of soap. Sodium Hydroxide is essential for creating solid soap bars or liquid cleansers.
  • Hair Relaxers and Perm Products: Sodium Hydroxide is used in hair relaxers and perm products. These formulations typically contain Sodium Hydroxide to break down the protein structure of the hair, allowing it to be reshaped and styled. However, the use of Sodium Hydroxide in such products requires caution, as it can be harsh and potentially damaging to the hair and scalp if not used properly.
  • Depilatory Creams: Sodium Hydroxide is a common ingredient in depilatory creams, which are used for hair removal. It helps to break down the protein structure of the hair, making it easier to remove.
Safety and Precautions:

Sodium Hydroxide is a highly caustic substance and can cause severe burns if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It should be handled with extreme caution, and appropriate safety measures, such as wearing protective gloves and goggles, should be followed when working with Sodium Hydroxide.

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