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Functional / Support

Sodium Hydroxide

Often labeled as: Lye

An alkaline mineral used in micro-doses to perfectly balance product pH.

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ
Overall Safety Safe
๐Ÿ‘ถ
Pregnancy Safety Safe
๐Ÿ•ณ๏ธ
Comedogenic (0-5) 0 / 5
โšก
Irritancy (0-5) 1 / 5

๐Ÿ”ฌ How It Actually Works

A highly alkaline ingredient (lye) used in microscopic amounts to raise the pH of a highly acidic product (like a 20% Vitamin C serum) so it doesn't burn your face off.

๐Ÿ’– Why your skin loves it

Ensures the final product is safe, stable, and effective.

๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip

It reacts completely during the formulation process; there is no raw lye left in your skincare.

โš–๏ธ Myth vs. Fact

The Myth

It burns the skin.

The Science

In its raw form, yes. In cosmetics, it is neutralized instantly to simply balance the pH.

๐Ÿงด Formulations featuring Sodium Hydroxide

โ˜… 8.8
Ultra Facial Cream
Kiehl's
Ultra Facial Cream
Moisturizer

A highly elegant, universally loved squalane-based moisturizer. Formulated masterfully without heavy waxes, it provides intense 24-hour hydration without feeling suffocating or greasy on the skin. A premium, no-nonsense staple.

โ˜… 9.1
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Paula's Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Exfoliant

The global gold standard of BHA exfoliants. It utilizes Methylpropanediol as a brilliant penetration enhancer, allowing the 2% Salicylic Acid to dive deep into the pore lining to dissolve oxidized sebum. It is incredibly effective but can leave a slightly tacky finish on the skin.

โ˜… 8.8
CoalFace Soap
Kayman Beauty
CoalFace Soap
Cleanser

A cult-classic physical bar soap that elegantly dodges the severe alkaline damage of traditional bars. By utilizing Cocamidopropyl Betaine (a gentle liquid surfactant) in a solid matrix, it achieves a low pH that respects the acid mantle. The activated charcoal acts as an incredible physical sponge for heavy midday sebum, while the high dosage of raw honey and glycerin ensures the skin is conditioned during the wash phase.

โ˜… 8.8
๐Ÿงด
Aiken
Tea Tree Oil Clarifying Toner
Toner

A highly targeted, minimalist antibacterial toner. It focuses entirely on delivering Salicylic Acid (BHA) and pure Australian Tea Tree Oil deep into the pores to clear out oxidized sebum and neutralize acne-causing bacteria. By remaining completely water-light and avoiding heavy humectants, it serves as the perfect clarifying step for hyper-oily profiles that easily congest.

โ˜… 8.9
BHA PHA Bright Pore Refining Exfoliating Gel
Aiken
BHA PHA Bright Pore Refining Exfoliating Gel
Exfoliant

A highly effective, purely synthetic peeling gel. It operates by utilizing Cellulose polymers that instantly clump together when rubbed on the skin, physically grabbing dead keratin flakes without severe micro-tearing. It is buffered with chemical exfoliants like Salicylic Acid and Gluconolactone.