Sodium Gluconate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
The synthetic salt form of gluconic acid | Helps improve the stability of skin care formulas
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Sodium Gluconate?
Sodium gluconate for skin is the salt form of gluconic acid, a mild acid produced from the sugar glucose. Despite the in-part sugar origins, sodium gluconate in skin care is a synthetic ingredient.
In skin care, sodium gluconate functions as a chelating agent. Chelating agents are ingredients that bind with metal ions to enhance the stability of other ingredients. Interestingly, the human body produces gluconates on its own to assist in obtaining nutrients from minerals.
In addition to being a chelating agent, sodium gluconate in skin care can also function as a humectant, meaning it helps skin retain a balanced amount of water. Its typical use level in cosmetics is 0.1-1.0%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, May/June 2019, pages 5S-38S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581818814189]
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Journals of Materials Research, February 2006, pages 343-348 [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1557/jmr.2006.0064]
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https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-08/documents/support_document_for_proposed_designation_of_d-gluconic_acid_sodium_salt.pdf [https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-08/documents/support_document_for_proposed_designation_of_d-gluconic_acid_sodium_salt.pdf]
From the Clinic
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Potassium Citrate
A pH buffer and chelating agent that stabilises skincare formulations
Sodium Citrate
Is a salt of citric acid, which can be derived from citrus | Is primarily used to control the pH level of a product
Sodium Gluceptate
A chelating agent that helps stabilise formulations and reduce the impact of mineral impurities
Sodium Hydroxide
Highly alkaline ingredient | Used in small amounts in cosmetics (such as in exfoliants and cleansers) to adjust pH
Sodium Lactate
The sodium salt of lactic acid | Works as a hydration-enhancing ingredient due to its hygroscopic nature
Sodium Metaphosphate
A buffering agent that stabilises formulations and supports oral care products
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