What Is Sodium Chlorate?
Sodium chlorate is an inorganic salt made of sodium, chlorine and oxygen that appears as a white crystalline powder. It is produced on a large scale by passing an electric current through a concentrated solution of sodium chloride, a process called electrolysis. This method allows manufacturers to turn common table salt into a more reactive compound suitable for controlled industrial and cosmetic purposes.
Interest in sodium chlorate for personal care started in the mid-20th century when its strong oxidising ability was noticed by formulators looking for ways to neutralise stubborn odors on skin. Over time safer handling practices and refined production techniques made it easier to integrate the ingredient into consumer products.
Today it shows up in certain specialty deodorants, foot sprays, purifying masks and occasional rinse-off treatments where a quick burst of odor control is needed. Because it can be potent it is usually present at low levels and paired with soothing agents that keep skin comfortable.
Sodium Chlorate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In topical formulas sodium chlorate is valued for two main roles
- Deodorant: Its oxidising action breaks down the compounds that cause unpleasant body odor rather than simply masking them with fragrance which helps products keep skin smelling fresh for longer periods
- Oxidising agent: By releasing oxygen it assists in the breakdown of residual oils and impurities on the skin surface enhancing the overall cleansing power of a formula and supporting a cleaner feel after use
Who Can Use Sodium Chlorate
Sodium chlorate is generally best suited to normal oily and combination skin where its deodorising and clarifying effects can be appreciated without excessive dryness. Those with very dry or sensitive skin may find the oxidising action a bit too strong which could lead to tightness or irritation so gentler alternatives are often recommended for these groups.
Because it is an inorganic mineral salt with no animal derived components sodium chlorate aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Most manufacturers also avoid animal testing for products containing this material though shoppers should always check brand policies to be certain.
Current research on topical sodium chlorate during pregnancy or breastfeeding is limited. At the low levels used in cosmetic rinse off products it is not expected to pose significant risk, however this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any product containing the ingredient with a healthcare professional first.
Sodium chlorate does not absorb UV light or make skin more reactive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. Users should still maintain normal sun protection habits for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical sodium chlorate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely to occur for most consumers when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Irritation or stinging, especially on broken or freshly shaved skin
- Dryness or a tight feeling due to the oxidising action stripping surface oils
- Redness or mild inflammation in individuals with sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis, though this is considered rare
- Discoloration or fading of colored fabrics if product residue contacts clothing
- Increased reactivity when layered with other strong acids or reducing agents
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5. Sodium chlorate is a highly water-soluble inorganic salt that rinses away easily and does not leave an oily or occlusive film on skin, so it has no known pore-clogging potential. This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Because it functions as an oxidising deodorant rather than an emollient or thickener, it is unlikely to build up inside follicles. If the finished product includes heavy waxes or oils those other ingredients, not sodium chlorate itself, would be the more likely culprits for congestion.
Summary
Sodium chlorate serves mainly as a deodorant and oxidising agent. It works by releasing oxygen that breaks down odor-causing molecules and surface impurities, giving formulas a quick freshening boost. Despite its strong chemical action the ingredient appears only in a small niche of rinse-off or short-contact products and is nowhere near as common as traditional antiperspirant salts or plant-based deodorisers.
When used at the low levels allowed in cosmetics sodium chlorate is considered safe for most healthy skin types, though people with very dry or sensitive skin might prefer milder options. As with any new product it is wise to perform a patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the overall formula.