Sodium Glycolate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glycolic Acid
Buffering agent used in skin care | Helps to adjust and stabilise the pH of a skin care formula
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Glycolate?
Sodium glycolate is a buffering agent used in skin care to help balance and adjust pH levels. It’s a synthetically made salt comprised of both glycolate and sodium ions.
The pH of skin care formulas is extremely important. Using alkaline or highly acidic products can disrupt skin’s naturally acidic pH, which on average is 4.7.
In cosmetics, sodium glycolate is considered safe when used in amounts of 10% or less. Despite its relation to the alpha hydroxy acid glycolic acid, sodium glycolate is not considered an effective exfoliant due to being present in salt form.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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PubChem, Accessed September 2022, ePublication [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-Glycolate]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2017, 14S-58S [https://cir-reports.cir-safety.org/view-attachment/?id=73d818db-8d74-ec11-8943-0022482f06a6]
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