Sodium Gluconate

Good

Chelating Agent

Sodium Gluconate at a glance

  • The synthetic salt form of gluconic acid
  • Helps improve the stability of skin care formulas
  • Can function as a humectant, helping skin retain water
  • The human body can produce gluconates on its own

Sodium Gluconate description

Sodium gluconate for skin is the salt form of gluconic acid, a mild acid produced from the sugar glucose. Despite the in-part sugar origins, sodium gluconate in skin care is a synthetic ingredient. In skin care, sodium gluconate functions as a chelating agent. Chelating agents are ingredients that bind with metal ions to enhance the stability of other ingredients. Interestingly, the human body produces gluconates on its own to assist in obtaining nutrients from minerals. In addition to being a chelating agent, sodium gluconate in skin care can also function as a humectant, meaning it helps skin retain a balanced amount of water. Its typical use level in cosmetics is 0.1-1.0%.

Sodium Gluconate references

  • International Journal of Toxicology, May/June 2019, pages 5S-38S
  • Journals of Materials Research, February 2006, pages 343-348
  • https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-08/documents/support_document_for_proposed_designation_of_d-gluconic_acid_sodium_salt.pdf

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.