Sodium sulfite

Functions
Antioxidant
Hair Waving Or Straightening
Preservative
Reducing
CAS Number(s)
7757-83-7
EINECS number(s)
231-821-4
FDA UNII
VTK01UQK3G

Sodium sulfite is a sodium salt of sulfurous acid, an inorganic compound used in skin and hair care formulas for balancing pH and as a preservative, reducing agent, and antioxidant. It is a salt with a strong base and a weak acid, so the pH of the solution is 8-10 alkaline allowing formulators to balance concentrated acids with lower pH.

Thanks to antimicrobial properties, Sodium sulfite suppresses the growth of bacteria and molds, enhancing the shelf-life and safety of preparation. In addition, the sulfur is not fully oxidized in sulfites, so the salts of this acid can be oxidized until sulfates formation (SO32- →SO42-), exhibiting potent antioxidant properties and protecting skin cells from oxidative stress.

It is a beneficial ingredient in hair care formulations. Sodium sulfite restructures hair facilitating styling.

Synonyms
Natrii Sulfis

Ingredient products

MBR® Medical Beauty Research
MBR® Medical Beauty Research
Biologique Recherche