Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) [1]. It is produced by the neutralization of lactic acid, which itself is typically derived from the fermentation of sugar sources like corn or beets [2]. Sodium lactate is highly water-soluble and is often utilized in cosmetic and personal care products for its versatile properties [3]. It functions as a humectant, buffering agent, and antimicrobial agent [4].

The production process of sodium lactate generally involves the fermentation of a carbohydrate source with a bacterial culture, typically Lactobacillus species [5]. The lactic acid produced is then neutralized with a source of sodium, such as sodium hydroxide, resulting in sodium lactate [6]. Following neutralization, the solution is purified, often through processes like filtration and decolorization, to remove impurities [7]. The resulting sodium lactate can be further processed into different forms, such as a powder, through drying methods like spray drying or evaporation [8].

Sodium lactate offers multiple benefits in cosmetic applications. As a humectant, it attracts and retains moisture in the skin, improving hydration levels [9]. It also functions as a buffering agent, helping to maintain the pH of formulations, which is vital for skin compatibility and product stability [10]. Furthermore, sodium lactate exhibits antimicrobial properties, contributing to the preservation of cosmetic products and potentially inhibiting the growth of certain skin microorganisms [11].

In the realm of cosmetic applications, sodium lactate is employed in a variety of products, including moisturizers, lotions, and cleansers, to enhance skin hydration [12]. It is also used in hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners, for its humectant properties, which aid in moisturizing the hair [13]. Additionally, sodium lactate is utilized in formulations where pH control is essential, ensuring that products remain within a skin-friendly pH range [14]. Sodium lactate is sometimes found in oral care products, contributing to the maintenance of a balanced oral environment [15].

Sodium lactate is usually packaged in polyethylene bags or fiber drums for solid forms, preventing moisture absorption and maintaining product integrity [16]. Liquid forms are typically stored in plastic drums or containers suitable for liquid storage, ensuring no leakage or contamination [17]. During transportation, it should be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials, to prevent degradation [18]. Proper labeling, in accordance with transportation regulations, is essential for safe handling and transport [19].

Citations

[1] Lactic Acid. (2023). National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 612, Lactic Acid. Retrieved from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Lactic-Acid
[2] H, Holten C. Lactic Acid: Properties and Chemistry of Lactic Acid and Derivatives. Weinheim, Germany: Verlag Chemie; 1971
[3] Ager, R., et al. "Final report on the safety assessment of sodium lactate, ammonium lactate, potassium lactate, calcium lactate, magnesium lactate, zinc lactate, and TEA-lactate." International Journal of Toxicology 15 Suppl 1 (1996): 1-41.
[4] Lactic Acid and Lactates. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.foodchemadditives.com/products/lactic-acid-and-lactates
[5] Wee, Y. J., Kim, K. J., Ryu, H. W. "Lactic acid production by bacterial fermentation: technology, applications, and future prospects." Food Technology and Biotechnology 44.2 (2006): 163-172.
[6] Tang, W., et al. "Production of L-lactic acid from corn stover hydrolysate by Lactobacillus rhamnosus." Bioresource Technology 101.6 (2010): 2022-2028.
[7] Abdel-Rahman, M. A., et al. "Strategies for efficient and economical lactic acid production from renewable resources." Journal of Radiation Research and Applied Sciences 7.2 (2014): 146-161.
[8] Datta, R., Tsai, S. P. "Lactic acid production by fermentation." Handbook on Bioethanol: Production and Utilization (2011): 67-82.
[9] Proksch, E., et al. "The stratum corneum: barrier function and the influence of cosmetic treatment." Skin Pharmacology and Physiology 21.2 (2008): 61-74.
[10] Fluhr, J. W., et al. "Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions." British Journal of Dermatology 159.1 (2008): 23-34.
[11] Talarico, T. L., Dobrogosz, W. J. "Antimicrobial activity of lactic acid bacteria against pathogenic microorganisms." Trends in Food Science & Technology 9.12 (1998): 433-439.
[12] Draelos, Z. D. "Cosmetic benefit of lactic acid on skin." Cosmetic Dermatology 20.2 (2007): 63-66.
[13] Gavazzoni Dias, M. F. "Hair cosmetics: an overview." International Journal of Trichology 7.1 (2015): 2-15.
[14] Baumann, L. "Cosmetic dermatology: principles and practice." New York: McGraw-Hill Medical, 2002.
[15] Dodds, M. W. J. "The oral ecosystem: considerations for oral care product development." Journal of Clinical Dentistry 20.3 (2009): 95-99.
[16] British Pharmacopoeia Commission. (2018). British Pharmacopoeia 2018. London: TSO.
[17] United States Pharmacopeial Convention. (2017). United States Pharmacopeia 40/National Formulary 35. Rockville, MD: United States Pharmacopeial Convention.
[18] European Chemicals Agency. (n.d.). Information on Registered Substances: Sodium Lactate. Retrieved from https://echa.europa.eu/
[19] International Air Transport Association. (2023). IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, 64th Edition. Montreal, Canada: IATA.

FacebookXRedditEmailLinkedInWhatsApp