What it is
Sodium Saccharin is the water-soluble sodium salt of the intense sweetener saccharin. In cosmetics it is added in very small amounts to impart sweetness or improve taste, which is why it appears in lip balms and other products likely to reach the mouth. It has no functional role in UV protection.
Safety & warnings
Used at very low levels for taste, it is generally well tolerated on skin and lips and is not a notable irritant or allergen at cosmetic use concentrations. It is non-comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic ingredient, the sodium salt of saccharin, an artificial sweetener manufactured by chemical synthesis.
Questions everyone asks
Why is a sweetener in a sunscreen or lip product?
In lip balms and similar products it is added in tiny amounts to improve taste, since these products can reach the mouth. It does not affect sun protection.
Is sodium saccharin the same as saccharin?
It is the sodium salt of saccharin, which makes it more water-soluble. Functionally it serves the same sweetening or flavoring purpose.