At a glance
- CAS number
- 19856-23-6
- INCI name
- Sodium Levulinate
- Function
- preservative, humectant, ph_adjuster
- Typical use level
- 0.5%–3%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 3.5–6.5
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Sodium 4-oxopentanoate Levulinic acid sodium salt Sodium levulate
Compatibility
Works well with:
Sodium Anisate Glycerin Ethylhexylglycerin Phenoxyethanol Sodium Benzoate Pentylene Glycol
Sodium Levulinate is most commonly paired with Sodium Anisate and/or Ethylhexylglycerin to achieve a broad-spectrum preservative system without parabens. Its efficacy is strongly pH-dependent; the undissociated levulinic acid form responsible for antimicrobial activity is most prevalent below pH 5.5. At higher pH values, antimicrobial performance drops significantly.
Formulation notes
Sodium Levulinate is the sodium salt of levulinic acid, a naturally derived keto-acid obtained from plant sugars. It functions primarily as a preservative booster and is rarely used as a standalone preservative; it disrupts microbial cell membranes most effectively in acidic formulas. It also contributes mild humectancy and can help buffer pH, making it a multifunctional ingredient popular in natural and clean-beauty formulations.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sodium Levulinate?
Sodium Levulinate is a preservative, humectant, ph_adjuster used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.5%–3%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 3.5–6.5 range.
What is Sodium Levulinate used for?
Sodium Levulinate is used as preservative, humectant, ph_adjuster in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Sodium Levulinate?
Sodium Levulinate is typically used at 0.5%–3% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Sodium Levulinate?
The CAS registry number for Sodium Levulinate is 19856-23-6. Its INCI name is Sodium Levulinate.
At what pH is Sodium Levulinate stable?
Sodium Levulinate is generally stable in the pH 3.5–6.5 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Sodium Levulinate?
Sodium Levulinate works well with Sodium Anisate, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Pentylene Glycol.
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