Is Sodium Dehydroacetate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Sodium Dehydroacetate is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (preservatives).
INCI name SODIUM DEHYDROACETATE. Also called Sodium DHA. CAS 4418-26-2.
Other names: Sodium DHA, Dehydroacetic Acid Sodium Salt
Is Sodium Dehydroacetate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Various Acure products, Andalou Naturals Moisturizers, Puracy Natural Body Wash |
| CAS number | 4418-26-2 |
What is Sodium Dehydroacetate?
Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, a broad-spectrum preservative effective against yeasts, molds, and some bacteria. It is frequently used in combination with benzyl alcohol as part of a natural-positioned preservative system.
Why is Sodium Dehydroacetate used in personal-care products?
Used to prevent microbial contamination in water-based cosmetics such as creams, lotions, and shampoos. The combination with benzyl alcohol (e.g., Geogard series) provides broad-spectrum coverage and is accepted by many natural cosmetic certifiers.
Is Sodium Dehydroacetate dangerous? Documented risks
Sodium dehydroacetate is permitted in the EU at ≤0.6% (as acid) under Annex V of Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. The CIR and SCCS have reviewed it and confirmed safety at permitted concentrations. Potential for skin sensitization is low. No carcinogenic or endocrine effects are documented at cosmetic use levels.
Products that may contain Sodium Dehydroacetate
- Various Acure products
- Andalou Naturals Moisturizers
- Puracy Natural Body Wash
How to avoid Sodium Dehydroacetate: safer alternatives
Potassium sorbate + sodium benzoate (cosmetic) as an alternative broad-spectrum system; ethylhexylglycerin combinations.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium Dehydroacetate
Is sodium dehydroacetate natural?
It is an acceptable preservative in several natural cosmetic certification schemes (COSMOS, Natrue) because of its relatively simple structure and low toxicity profile, though it is synthetically produced.
Is it safe?
Yes at permitted concentrations. The EU restricts it to ≤0.6% and the CIR has confirmed safety. It is considered a well-tolerated preservative alternative to parabens and isothiazolinones.
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Sources
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex V – Preservatives List — European Commission
- CIR Safety Assessment of Dehydroacetic Acid — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Sodium Dehydroacetate — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.