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Preservative

Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate

The classic "natural" pair of preservatives in cosmetics and the food industry. Sodium Benzoate is active against yeasts and bacteria, Potassium Sorbate — against mold. Together they form a complete protection system.

Natural preservativesYeastsMoldclean beauty
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Sodium Benzoate (sodium benzoate, E211) — a salt of benzoic acid, present in cranberries and blueberries. Potassium Sorbate (potassium sorbate, E202) — a salt of sorbic acid from rowan. Both are food preservatives (E-numbers), allowed in organic cosmetics COSMOS. Most effective at pH < 5.5.

A popular preservative system in natural, organic, and clean beauty cosmetics, toners with acidic pH, products without phenoxyethanol and parabens.

Key Benefits

✦
Natural origin (COSMOS approved)
Both preservatives are allowed in certified organic cosmetics COSMOS — a choice for natural and clean beauty brands.
◈
Complementary action of the pair
Sodium Benzoate is active against bacteria and yeasts, Potassium Sorbate — against mold and fungi. Together they cover the entire spectrum of microorganisms.
✧
Effectiveness at acidic pH
Most active at pH ≤ 5.5 — an ideal pair for toners with vitamin C, AHA products, and acidic essences.

Suitable for

For all skin typesFor sensitive skin (natural alternative)

Main Actions

✓ Preservation (natural)✓ Antibacterial action✓ Antifungal action✓ COSMOS compatibility
Sodium benzoate + ascorbic acid

Sodium benzoate combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can form a minimal amount of benzene under certain conditions. In cosmetics, this is extremely unlikely, but some formulators avoid this combination in one product.

CategoryPreservatives

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate do for skin?
A popular preservative system in natural, organic, and clean beauty cosmetics, toners with acidic pH, products without phenoxyethanol and parabens.
Who should use Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate?
Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate is suitable for: For all skin types, For sensitive skin (natural alternative).
Are there any warnings about Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate?
Sodium benzoate combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can form a minimal amount of benzene under certain conditions. In cosmetics, this is extremely unlikely, but some formulators avoid this combination in one product.

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