Sodium Dextran Sulfate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Sodium Dextran Sulfate?

Sodium Dextran Sulfate is the sodium salt form of dextran, a long chain of glucose units that has been treated with sulfuric acid to give it a negative charge. Dextran itself is produced by certain bacteria during sugar fermentation. For cosmetic use manufacturers grow these bacteria in controlled tanks, collect the dextran they release, purify it, then react it with sulfuric acid and neutralize it with sodium to create Sodium Dextran Sulfate. The end result is a fine powder that dissolves easily in water.

The ingredient first drew attention in medical research because of its ability to bind water and form gels. Formulators soon noticed that the same traits could improve the feel and stability of skincare products. Today it appears in sheet masks, hydrating gels, soothing serums, eye creams and after-sun lotions where a smooth cushiony texture is desired.

Sodium Dextran Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skincare formulas Sodium Dextran Sulfate is valued for the way it influences texture and application

  • Gel forming: It swells in water to create a soft gel that gives products a fresh bouncy feel on the skin while helping them stay in place during wear.
  • Viscosity controlling: By thickening watery bases it prevents runny textures, improves spreadability and keeps ingredients evenly suspended so the product feels consistent from the first use to the last.

Who Can Use Sodium Dextran Sulfate

Sodium Dextran Sulfate is mild and water based, so it suits most skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. It does not clog pores or leave an oily film, making it friendly for acne prone complexions. People with very compromised or broken skin should check with a dermatologist before use, as any thickening agent can feel occlusive on open lesions.

The ingredient is produced by fermenting plant derived sugars with bacteria, then neutralizing the product with sodium. No animal sourced materials are used at any stage, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety data shows no reason it cannot be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review any skincare they plan to use, just to be safe.

Sodium Dextran Sulfate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it carries no special sun care warnings beyond the usual daily SPF recommendation. It also plays well with most other cosmetic ingredients and is fragrance free, reducing the risk of scent related irritation.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Sodium Dextran Sulfate vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.

  • Mild redness a short lived flush in very sensitive skin
  • Itching temporary tingling or itch, often from overstressed skin barriers
  • Dryness rare when paired with enough humectants but possible in low humidity climates
  • Eye irritation watering or stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
  • Allergic contact dermatitis extremely rare immune response resulting in rash and swelling

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Sodium Dextran Sulfate is a large, water soluble carbohydrate salt that stays on the skin’s surface and rinses away easily, so it does not block pores or create the conditions that lead to blackheads or breakouts. This makes it a good choice for people who are prone to acne.

Because the ingredient is typically used at low levels and contains no oily or waxy components, its inherent clogging potential is effectively zero. As always, the overall comedogenicity of a finished product depends on every ingredient in the formula. A cream heavy in plant oils could still be problematic even if it contains Sodium Dextran Sulfate.

Summary

Sodium Dextran Sulfate is mainly added to skincare as a gel former and viscosity controller. It absorbs water, swells into a soft gel then holds that water in place, giving products a smooth bouncy texture and keeping pigments or actives evenly dispersed. These traits help makers turn watery mixes into stable masks, serums and lotions that feel fresh on the skin.

While not a headline grabbing active, it has carved out a quiet following among formulators who need a reliable thickener that feels light and works well in sensitive skin products. You will most often spot it in hydrating gels, sheet mask essences and soothing eye treatments.

Current research and long use in cosmetics point to a very safe profile with low irritation and zero comedogenic risk. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains Sodium Dextran Sulfate before applying it to the entire face.

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