Sodium Phytate
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Synthetic salt form of the antioxidant phytic acid | Works as a chelating agent, keeping metals from binding to water in cosmetics
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Phytate?
Sodium phytate is the synthetic salt form of the antioxidant phytic acid. In this form, it works as a chelating agent, keeping metals from binding to water in cosmetics. This also helps stabilize the formula.
Sodium phytate is described as a hygroscopic powder (meaning it’s a substance that attracts moisture from its surroundings) and is considered highly soluble in water.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review’s latest assessment of sodium phytate (in 2018) reaffirmed its status as a safe cosmetic ingredient. Their report surveyed 412 products ranging in 0.0099-0.5% concentration. (Only small amounts of this ingredient are needed to enable its chelating function.)
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
PLoS One, August 2021, pages 1–16 [https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0255787]
-
Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2018, pages 1-37 [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/phytic092018FR.pdf]
-
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, ePublication [https://gsrs.ncats.nih.gov/ginas/app/beta/substances/88496G1ERL]
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
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
Sodium Polyitaconate
A chelating agent that helps stabilise formulations and reduce metal ion interference
Sodium Polyphosphate
A chelating agent that helps stabilise formulations and manage mineral content in skincare
Tea-EDTA
A chelating agent that stabilises formulations and supports ingredient efficacy
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.