Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate is a liquid cosmetic preservative, which can be used in leave-on as well as in rinse-off products. Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate was developed for use in cosmetic formulations

with a skin-friendly pH value of up to 5.5. It has a broad,balanced spectrum of effect against bacteria, yeasts and mould fungi. This preservative system is acceptable to the Soil Association for use in products that are looking for Soil Association accreditation.

Sodium benzoate and Potassium sorbate is equally effective against bacteria, yeasts and mould fungi. It is a typically biostatic product with the biocidal properties necessary for practical use.

For Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate to perform effectively in destroying organisms in products already contaminated, a minimum contact time of 48 hours is necessary.

Since the effect of Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate takes place through chemical reactions with the microorganisms, when it is used in heavily contaminated products loss of active ingredient must be taken into account.

Good production hygiene, as well as the use of raw materials with low microorganism levels as a result of correct raw material control, are of course vital prerequisites for the production of microbiologically faultless finished products.

Which Products can I use Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate?

• Moisture Cream
• Moisture Lotion
• Body Butter
• Cleanser
• Face Mask
• Skin Peels
• Shower Gel
• Shampoo
• Conditioner

Emulsions

In practice emulsions are preserved with 0.5 – 1.5 % addition of Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate

Solutions

Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate is normally used in concentrations of 0.5 – 1.5 %. It does not effect the foaming results of shampoo and shower gel making it highly useful as a preservation system in these products, providing the pH is less than 5.5. Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate is fully effective in both cationic and non-ionic systems.

Wet wipes

For wet tissues good preservation results are achieved with 0.5 – 1.5% Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate.

Follow good manufacturing practise.

When blending always take the following precautions:

• Use gloves (disposable are ideal)
• Take care when handling hot oils
• Wear eye protection
• Work in a well ventilated room
• Keep ingredients and hot oils away from children
• If ingested, seek immediate medical advice
• If contact made with eyes, rinse immediately with clean warm water and seek medical advice if in any doubt.

In addition to our precautions and general safety information, we always recommend keeping a first aid kit nearby. You are working with hot water and oils, accidents can happen, so always be prepared!

See our video of how to use Sodium benzoate & Potassium sorbate in a Room Spray. The same concept would apply when making a facial toner. Read blog post