Is Sodium Hyaluronate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Sodium Hyaluronate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
INCI name SODIUM HYALURONATE. Also called NaHA. CAS 9067-32-7.
Other names: HA salt, Hyaluronate sodium, NaHA
Is Sodium Hyaluronate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum, Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Booster, SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel |
| CAS number | 9067-32-7 |
What is Sodium Hyaluronate?
Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid. It has a slightly smaller molecular weight than free hyaluronic acid, which allows better penetration into the outer layers of the stratum corneum. It is the form most commonly used in topical serum formulations.
Why is Sodium Hyaluronate used in personal-care products?
Used as a potent humectant in water-based serums and moisturizers. The smaller molecular size compared to high-MW HA allows it to penetrate the upper skin layers more effectively, providing deeper hydration.
Is Sodium Hyaluronate dangerous? Documented risks
Sodium hyaluronate shares the excellent safety profile of hyaluronic acid. It is an endogenous compound, non-allergenic, non-irritating, and thoroughly reviewed as safe by the CIR. No concerns regarding carcinogenicity, hormones, or systemic toxicity exist.
Products that may contain Sodium Hyaluronate
- The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%The Ordinary
- CeraVe Foaming Facial CleanserCeraVe
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle CleanserLa Roche-Posay
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5The Ordinary
- L'Oréal Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid SerumL'Oréal
- EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Broad-Spectrum SunscreenEltaMD
- e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundatione.l.f.
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water GelNeutrogena
How to avoid Sodium Hyaluronate: safer alternatives
Hyaluronic acid itself; sodium PCA or glycerin as alternative humectants.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium Hyaluronate
Is sodium hyaluronate better than hyaluronic acid?
Neither is universally better. Lower-MW sodium hyaluronate penetrates deeper; high-MW hyaluronic acid forms a better surface film. Many premium products use both for synergistic layered hydration.
Is sodium hyaluronate vegan?
Modern cosmetic sodium hyaluronate is produced by bacterial fermentation and is entirely vegan. Older, animal-derived sources (rooster comb) are rarely used today.
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Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Sodium Hyaluronate — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.