Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Sodium Metabisulfite

Sodium pyrosulfite / SMB

Safety Notes

Sulfite antioxidant; releases SO2; asthma sensitization concern at high concentrations; EU Annex V limits; flagged EU allergen for sulfite hypersensitivity; used in oxidative hair colour as reducing agent

Function & Common Use

Function

Antioxidant / Reducing Agent / Preservative

Category

Antioxidant

Common In

Oxidative hair dye kits antioxidant in some preparations

Origin

Synthetic (mineral)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No formal limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

Annex V as preservative: 0.2% as SO2; in oxidative haircolour: max expressed as SO2

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sodium Metabisulfite safe to use in skincare?

Sodium Metabisulfite has a Medium concern rating. Sulfite antioxidant; releases SO2; asthma sensitization concern at high concentrations; EU Annex V limits; flagged EU allergen for sulfite hypersensitivity; used in oxidative hair colour as reducing agent

Is Sodium Metabisulfite allowed in India?

Sodium Metabisulfite is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.

What is Sodium Metabisulfite used for in cosmetics?

Sodium Metabisulfite functions as: Antioxidant / Reducing Agent / Preservative. It is commonly found in: Oxidative hair dye kits antioxidant in some preparations.

TCS Assessment
Medium Concern
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted

EU Annex: Annex V

Identifiers

CAS7681-57-4
EC231-673-0

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