At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about sodium lactate. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Sodium lactate is the neutral salt of lactic acid. In ORY® products, it is a humectant that helps skin and hair hold moisture, a pH buffer, and a soap-making additive that helps bars harden. |
Verification: Supported. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel found lactic acid and its salts, including sodium lactate, safe in cosmetics (for alpha hydroxy acid products: up to 10% at pH 3.5 or higher, with sun-protection directions); CIR reaffirmed this in 2017. At the near-neutral pH of sodium lactate products, it does not exfoliate.
Citations:
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment including sodium lactate.
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Sodium lactate is made by neutralizing fermentation-derived lactic acid with sodium hydroxide and is supplied as a 60% solution. |
Verification: Supported. Lactate is a natural part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF).
Citations:
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
- What it shows: Review of NMF and moisturization.
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Sodium lactate suits all skin types. |
Verification: Supported. CIR found lactates safe as used.
Citations:
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- What it shows: Safety data.
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, sodium lactate adds light moisture and helps keep product pH stable. |
Verification: Limited evidence. We found no clinical studies of sodium lactate on hair. ORY® haircare products are not intended to treat scalp conditions.
Citations:
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
- What it shows: General review.
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
5. Benefits
Claim: Sodium lactate helps skin feel hydrated and soft and helps soap bars harden. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. In healthy people, higher natural lactate levels in the skin were linked to better hydration and flexibility. That study measured the skin’s own lactate, not a product, but supports lactate’s role as a humectant. Its soap-hardening effect is established soapmaking practice rather than peer-reviewed research.
Citations:
- Nakagawa, N., et al. (2004). Relationship between NMF (lactate and potassium) content and the physical properties of the stratum corneum in healthy subjects. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 122(3), 755–763. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0022-202X.2004.22317.x
- What it shows: Study of skin lactate and hydration.
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
- What it shows: Review of NMF.
- Nakagawa, N., et al. (2004). Relationship between NMF (lactate and potassium) content and the physical properties of the stratum corneum in healthy subjects. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 122(3), 755–763. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0022-202X.2004.22317.x
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Sodium lactate is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported. Use levels are low and within the ranges CIR reviewed.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 1–5% | Serums, toners, creams, lotions, cleansers, and masks. |
| Haircare | 0.5–3% | Shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, and scalp serums. |
| Handmade Soap | 1–3% of oil weight (60% solution) | Added to cooled lye water for harder bars. |
| Cosmetics | 0.5–3% | Foundations, setting sprays, and lip products. |
Citations:
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- What it shows: Reported uses.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
7. Pros
Claim: A skin-identical humectant and useful soap additive with a CIR safety conclusion. |
Verification: Supported. Well documented.
Citations:
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
- What it shows: NMF review.
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
8. Cons
Claim: Sodium lactate can thin some gels, can make soap brittle if overused, and is often confused with lactic acid. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Electrolyte. Can thin some gels and emulsions.
- Soap overuse. Above about 3% can make bars brittle.
- Name confusion. Not an exfoliant like lactic acid.
- Dry air. Pair with an emollient.
Citations:
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- What it shows: Safety data.
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Humectants work best when followed by a moisturizer or oil, especially in dry air.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Andersen, F. A. (Ed.). (1998). Final report on the safety assessment of glycolic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, and sodium glycolates, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl glycolates, and lactic acid, ammonium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and TEA-lactates, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl lactates, and lauryl, myristyl, and cetyl lactates. International Journal of Toxicology, 17(Suppl 1), 1–241. https://doi.org/10.1177/109158189801700101
- Nakagawa, N., et al. (2004). Relationship between NMF (lactate and potassium) content and the physical properties of the stratum corneum in healthy subjects. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 122(3), 755–763. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0022-202X.2004.22317.x
- Rawlings, A. V., & Harding, C. R. (2004). Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(Suppl 1), 43–48. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1005.x
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
