Sodium Metabisulfite

Description

Sodium metabisulfite is an antioxidant-based preservative used in cosmetics and skincare products to prevent bacterial and mold contamination and to extend the shelf life of products. Antioxidants help prevent the oxidation of products, which is a natural process that occurs when oxygen takes away electrons from the ingredients in the formulation, changing their composition and effectiveness. Oxidation is often associated with a change in the color and texture of the product. Antioxidants donate electrons to oxygen so that it does not damage the composition. As an antioxidant preservative, sodium metabisulfite protects other ingredients in the composition from oxidation. In addition to its use as an antioxidant preservative, sodium metabisulfite acts as a curling/straightening agent. It is often used in combination with sodium sulfite and sodium sulfate in hair straighteners and perms. Other hair care products that use sodium sulfite include bleaches and hair dyes.