Sodium Metabisulfite
Used as a preservative and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations | Also offers antioxidant properties
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Metabisulfite?
Sodium metabisulfite is used as a preservative and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. This synthetic ingredient also offers antioxidant properties. In hair care, it functions as a reducing agent that alters the structure of hair.
Suppliers of sodium metabisulfite describe it as colorless crystals or a white to yellowish crystalline powder in its raw material form.
In 2013 the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed sodium metabisulfite safe as used in cosmetic formulations (their report looked at skin care products using less than 1% concentrations). Its safety status was reaffirmed in 2020.
Research indicates those with allergies/sensitivities to sulfite ingredients should be aware of potential sensitization to sodium metabisulfite.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Contact Dermatitis, January 2012, pages 260-269 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0536.2012.02135.x]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2003, pages 63-68 [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1080/10915810390239478]
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Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, September–October 1999, pages 252–259 [https://journal.pda.org/content/53/5/252]
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- SODIUM METABISULFITE
- INN Name
- sodium metabisulfite
- EC Number
- 231-673-0 / -
- Function
- Antioxidant, Preservative, Redu CI Ng
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