What is Sodium Mannitylphytate?
Sodium Mannitylphytate is a cosmetic ingredient that is the sodium salt of the product obtained by the condensation of Mannitol and Phytic Acid. Mannitol is a type of sugar alcohol that is often used as a sweetener and medication, while Phytic Acid is a unique natural substance found in plant seeds. The combination of these two components results in Sodium Mannitylphytate, a compound that serves multiple functions in cosmetic products.
The use of Sodium Mannitylphytate in cosmetics is a relatively recent development. As the beauty industry evolved and the demand for more effective and multifunctional ingredients increased, researchers began to explore the potential of various compounds. Sodium Mannitylphytate emerged as a promising ingredient due to its antioxidant, chelating, and preservative properties.
The production of Sodium Mannitylphytate involves a chemical process known as condensation. In this process, Mannitol and Phytic Acid are combined under specific conditions to form a new compound. The resulting product is then neutralized with sodium to produce Sodium Mannitylphytate.
While there are other ingredients in the cosmetic industry that also serve as antioxidants, chelating agents, and preservatives, Sodium Mannitylphytate stands out due to its unique origin and composition. Unlike many synthetic ingredients, it is derived from natural substances, which may make it a more appealing choice for consumers who prefer natural or organic products.
Sodium Mannitylphytate is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its versatile properties. It can be found in moisturizers, where it helps to prevent oxidation and extend the product’s shelf life. It is also used in serums, where it acts as a chelating agent to bind to metal ions and prevent them from causing damage to the skin. Furthermore, its preservative properties make it a valuable addition to many other types of cosmetic products.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Sodium Mannitylphytate:
Antioxidant
Sodium Mannitylphytate serves as an antioxidant in cosmetic products. In layman’s terms, antioxidants are substances that help protect our skin cells from damage. They do this by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage the cells in your skin. This damage can lead to premature aging and skin diseases. By including Sodium Mannitylphytate in a product, manufacturers are helping to protect your skin from these harmful effects.
Chelating
Another official function of Sodium Mannitylphytate is as a chelating agent. This might sound complex, but it simply means that it has the ability to bind with metal ions, preventing them from adhering to your skin or hair. This is particularly beneficial in hard water areas, where minerals can build up on the skin and hair, causing dryness and irritation. By chelating these minerals, Sodium Mannitylphytate helps to prevent these issues.
Preservative
Lastly, Sodium Mannitylphytate is used as a preservative in cosmetic products. Preservatives are crucial in cosmetics as they prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which could otherwise spoil the product and potentially harm your skin. Therefore, the inclusion of Sodium Mannitylphytate helps to extend the shelf-life of your cosmetics, ensuring they remain safe and effective to use for a longer period.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Sodium Mannitylphytate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Sodium Mannitylphytate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products, as per the CosIng Database, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
As for its allergenic potential, Sodium Mannitylphytate is not known to cause allergic reactions. However, as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual sensitivities can vary, and an allergic reaction is always a possibility.
The potential side effects of topical application of Sodium Mannitylphytate include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Dryness
- Redness
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical usage of Sodium Mannitylphytate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Sodium Mannitylphytate are not common. However, it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
