What Is Sodium Phenolsulfonate?
Sodium phenolsulfonate, also called sodium hydroxybenzenesulphonate, is a white crystalline powder made by sulfonating phenol then neutralizing the resulting acid with sodium hydroxide. The process attaches a sulfonate group to a phenol ring, creating a water-soluble salt that blends easily into water-based cosmetic formulas. First studied in the early 1900s for its germ-fighting properties, it eventually found a place in personal care as brands looked for reliable alternatives to traditional preservatives.
Today the ingredient appears in products where odor control and product freshness are priorities. You will most often see it in facial toners, clarifying masks, body sprays, deodorant creams, scalp treatments and some wipe formulations. Because it dissolves quickly, manufacturers can add it late in production without affecting texture or fragrance.
Sodium Phenolsulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin and body care the ingredient serves two key roles that help keep both the product and the user feeling fresh.
- Antimicrobial: Limits the growth of bacteria, yeast and mold inside the formula which helps extend shelf life and keeps the product safer for daily use
- Deodorant: Reduces odor-causing bacteria on skin so the treated area smells clean for longer
Who Can Use Sodium Phenolsulfonate
Sodium phenolsulfonate is generally considered friendly to most skin types including normal, oily and combination skin because it is water soluble and used at low concentrations. Sensitive or already irritated skin may notice a slight stinging sensation if the formula also contains strong acids or alcohol so those users may want to choose gentler blends.
The ingredient is synthesized in a lab from readily available chemicals rather than animal sources which means it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is also compliant with most cruelty free standards when sourced from suppliers that do not test on animals.
No data suggest the salt poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when applied topically in cosmetic amounts. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask their healthcare provider before adding new skincare products just to be safe.
Sodium phenolsulfonate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so extra sun precautions beyond routine SPF use are not required. The ingredient is odorless and colorless in solution so it will not tint skin or clothing.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical sodium phenolsulfonate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely to occur for the average user when the product is correctly formulated.
- Skin irritation
- Temporary redness or warmth at the application site
- Mild stinging on freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Dry patches if used alongside strong astringents
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to sulfonate compounds
If any of these reactions develop discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Sodium phenolsulfonate is a small, water-soluble salt that does not leave an oily film on skin or clog pores. It sits in the water phase of a formula and rinses away easily, so it is very unlikely to block follicles. For this reason it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because the ingredient has no fatty chains and does not interact with sebum, its presence in a product will not raise that product’s overall pore-clogging potential. The only time breakouts could occur is if other richer ingredients in the same formula are comedogenic.
Summary
Sodium phenolsulfonate works mainly as an antimicrobial and deodorant agent. It keeps formulas fresh by stopping the growth of bacteria, yeast and mold, and it helps skin or underarms stay odor-free by reducing microbes on the surface. The salt does this by disrupting the cell walls of common microorganisms, which hinders their ability to multiply.
The ingredient is more of a behind-the-scenes helper than a star in marketing campaigns, so you will not see it highlighted as often as better-known actives. That said it shows up in a steady range of toners, sprays and wipes where a clean lightweight feel is important.
Current research and real-world use suggest it is safe for most people when used at normal cosmetic levels. Side effects are rare and usually mild. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first so you can spot any personal sensitivity before applying it to larger areas.