What it is
Sodium phosphate refers to sodium salts of phosphoric acid used in cosmetics primarily to buffer and adjust pH. By holding the formula within a target pH range, it helps keep other ingredients stable and the product comfortable on skin. It is a common, functional formulation aid rather than an active.
Safety & warnings
Sodium phosphate is widely used as a pH buffer and is generally well tolerated at the low levels used in cosmetics.
Origin & sourcing
A synthetically produced inorganic mineral salt.
Questions everyone asks
What does sodium phosphate do in sunscreen?
It works as a buffering and pH-adjusting agent, helping keep the formula at a stable, skin-comfortable pH.
Is sodium phosphate an active ingredient?
No. It is a functional formulation aid used to control pH, not a UV filter or treatment active.