Sodium Phytate is the sodium salt of phytic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in plant materials such as rice bran, grains, seeds, and legumes. In cosmetic formulations, its main function is as a chelating agent. Its main benefits are to bind unwanted metal ions, improve product stability, help protect against oxidation and discoloration, and support the effectiveness of a properly designed preservative system. It is often selected as a more naturally positioned alternative to conventional chelators such as Disodium EDTA. Uses in cosmetics, Sodium Phytate is particularly useful in serums, facial toners, creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, body washes, liquid soaps, facial cleansers, masks, gels and other water-based cosmetics.
Property Information
INCI Name Sodium Phytate
Function Chelating Agent
Appearance Usually white/off-white powder or supplied as an aqueous solution
Solubility Water soluble
Origin Plant-derived grades are commercially available
Main Benefit Improves formulation stability
Typical Usage
A common starting range is approximately 0.05–0.20%, although the correct amount depends on the concentration and form supplied by the manufacturer.
For example, in a 10 kg batch, 0.10% corresponds to 10 g of active Sodium Phytate.
It is generally incorporated into the water phase and can be added early in the manufacturing process. Always follow the supplier's recommended pH, concentration, and processing instructions.
Important: Sodium Phytate is not a preservative by itself. It can support a preservation system, but an appropriate broad-spectrum preservative and microbial/challenge testing are still needed for water-containing cosmetics.
