Ingredient dictionary

Sodium Silicate

Also listed as: Water glass

A water-soluble mineral salt made from silica and sodium that mainly acts as a pH adjuster, raising alkalinity to keep a formula balanced. It is on the label of 3 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: because it is alkaline, very sensitive skin may feel tight or dry after use, so rinse thoroughly and stop if irritation appears.

What Sodium Silicate does

Raises pH, making formulas more alkaline
Helps soap-based products stay stable
Softens water so lather works better

Sodium silicate is made by melting silica, the main part of sand, together with a sodium compound at high heat. The glassy result dissolves in water to form a clear, slightly thick liquid. That is why it is also known as water glass.

In cosmetics, formulators use it mainly to raise pH, since it is alkaline. It can also help soap-based products stay stable and soften hard water, where minerals would otherwise dull lather. In shaving products, it is valued for supporting a balanced, well-behaved formula. Used in small amounts, it is generally well tolerated on skin in rinse-off products.

Good for

Suits rinse-off shaving and cleansing products, where its alkaline pH helps the formula work as designed.

Frequently asked questions

Is sodium silicate safe for skin?

It is generally considered well tolerated in rinse-off products at the levels used in cosmetics. Because it is alkaline, people with very dry or sensitive skin may want to patch test first and rinse well after use.

Is sodium silicate the same as water glass?

Yes. Sodium silicate solutions are commonly called water glass, a name that comes from their glassy solid form and clear, slightly thick liquid. In cosmetics, the ingredient is listed on labels as Sodium Silicate.