Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkali. It raises pH, neutralizes acids, and reacts with fats to make soap.
How is it used?
You should add sodium hydroxide slowly to water while stirring, and you should never pour water onto the dry solid. The solution becomes very hot, so you should let it cool before use.
Forms
Available forms and grades affect how this ingredient behaves and how it should be selected for a formula.
Appearance
Color, texture, and physical characteristics can vary between suppliers and product grades.
Scent
The supplied ingredient may have a characteristic scent or no documented scent.
pH
The value identifies whether it describes the supplied material, a dilution, or the finished formula.
Usage rate
Recommended incorporation levels depend on product type, supplier guidance, and the intended result.
Why we use it
Formulators choose this ingredient for specific performance, sensory, and stability benefits.
Strengths and limitations
Its advantages, compatibility considerations, and practical tradeoffs should be weighed during development.
Alternatives and substitutions
Possible replacements depend on the ingredient's role, desired skin feel, and formulation system.
Storage and shelf life
Appropriate storage conditions help protect quality and performance throughout the ingredient's usable life.
Create an account to read the full guide
Sign up free to unlock use levels, substitutions, formulation guidance, and storage advice.