Sodium Lactate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 72-17-3, Sodium DL-lactate, Sodium 2-hydroxypropanoate, Lactic acid sodium salt, Monosodium lactate, Lacolin, Per-glycerin, Lactic acid, Monosodium salt, Sodium alpha-hydroxypropionate
Synthetic
Rx Active
Humectant
Chemical Exfoliant
Not Clean
Based on the available information included in this report, the CIR Expert Panel concludes that Glycolic and Lactic Acid, their common salts and their simple esters, are safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations less than or equal to 10%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.5, when formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity or when directions for use include the daily use of sun protection. These ingredients are safe for use in salon products at concentrations less than or equal to 30%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.0, in products designed for brief, discontinuous use followed by thorough rinsing from the skin, when applied by trained professionals, and when application is accompanied by directions for the daily use of sun protection...Sodium Lactate...
Effective at 25.0%
Formula
C3H5NaO3
Mol. Weight
112.06
CAS #
72-17-3, 867-56-1
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid
Functions
Buffering
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Keratolytic
A pharmaceutical-grade active. These are the heavy hitters — often prescription-strength or regulated for potency.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Lactic acid, a naturally occurring compound from milk fermentation, was identified in the 18th century; its sodium salt form was developed synthetically for use in cosmetics as a humectant and pH buffer in the 20th century.
EWG
5
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Phototoxicity Concern
Concentration Guide
0.0002%
50.0%
0%70%
Reported use
CIR reported use: 0.0004-0.92 | 0.0002-8 | <0.1-50c
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
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Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR