Ingredient dictionary

Sodium Dehydroacetate

A water-soluble salt of dehydroacetic acid that is used as a preservative to help stop mold, yeast and some bacteria from growing in products. It is on the label of 26 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Sodium Dehydroacetate does

Helps stop mold and yeast growth
Helps control bacteria in water-based formulas
Helps products stay fresh over time

Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, made by chemical synthesis. Turning it into a salt helps it dissolve easily in water. Formulators choose it as a preservative, because water-containing products can grow mold, yeast and some bacteria. It works mainly against mold and yeast, and it helps with some bacteria.

Its water solubility makes it easy to blend into water-based formulas. It is used in small amounts and does not change scent or color much, so it fits many product types. It is often paired with other preservatives, since combinations can cover a wider range of microbes. It is not meant to change how a product feels on the skin or lashes.

Good for

Water-containing products, including many mascaras, that need protection from mold and bacteria.

Frequently asked questions

Is sodium dehydroacetate safe to use?

It is widely used in cosmetics, and it is not part of a flagged ingredient group in this guide. Any ingredient can cause a reaction in some people, so patch testing a new product and checking the full label if you have known sensitivities is a sensible habit.

Why is sodium dehydroacetate in mascara?

Many mascaras contain water, which gives microbes something to feed on. A preservative helps keep the formula fresh after you open it and during daily use. Since eye products get handled often, dependable protection matters.