SODIUM BORATE is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING — AnnexIII-CONCENTRATION-.
SODIUM BORATE
Borax
Safety grade: C
Sodium borate is a mineral salt derived from boron, a naturally occurring element found in soil and water. It has been used for centuries in cleaning and personal care products.
This ingredient helps balance the pH level of cosmetic formulations to keep them stable and prevent them from becoming too acidic or alkaline, which protects both the product and your skin.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- EU COSING — Restricted
- Health Canada — Restricted
Last verified: May 26, 2026
Safer alternatives to SODIUM BORATE
- SODIUM CITRATE — Grade A. Buffers pH using citrate chemistry; chelates metals like borate does.
- SODIUM LACTATE — Grade A. Buffers pH while providing humectant benefits; gentler alternative.
- PHOSPHORIC ACID — Grade A. Direct pH buffering agent; establishes acidic buffer systems in formulas.
- DISODIUM PHOSPHATE — Grade A. Phosphate-based buffer system; stabilizes pH across cosmetic formulations.
Other Buffering ingredients
- CITRIC ACID — Grade B
- SODIUM HYDROXIDE — Grade B
- LACTIC ACID — Grade B
- TRIETHANOLAMINE — Grade C
- POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE — Grade B**
- UREA — Grade B