Bicarbonate of Soda

Bicarbonate of Soda, also known by its INCI name Sodium Bicarbonate, is an inorganic mineral salt widely used throughout the cosmetic industry. It is a fine white crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water and valued for its ability to regulate pH, neutralise acids, and provide gentle deodorising properties.

In cosmetic formulations, Bicarbonate of Soda performs several functions depending on the product type. It is commonly used to create the characteristic fizzing reaction in bath bombs when combined with Citric Acid, where carbon dioxide is released upon contact with water. It is also used in natural deodorants, cleansing powders, foot care products, dry shampoos, facial cleansers, and exfoliating products where its absorbent and cleansing properties are beneficial.

Its versatility, affordability, and ease of formulation have made Bicarbonate of Soda one of the most widely used raw materials for bath and body product development.

Bicarbonate of Soda is used in cosmetic formulations because it performs multiple functions within a single ingredient. It can help regulate formulation pH, absorb moisture, reduce unwanted odours, and contribute to the cleansing performance of a finished product. This versatility allows formulators to create effective products using relatively simple ingredient systems.

It is the primary ingredient used in bath bomb formulations, where it reacts with Citric Acid to create the effervescent fizz that consumers expect. In deodorant products, Bicarbonate of Soda is valued for helping to neutralise odour and maintain freshness. It is also incorporated into cleansing powders, foot soaks, exfoliating scrubs, and dry personal care products where it provides mild abrasive and absorbent properties.

For cosmetic brands, Bicarbonate of Soda is a familiar ingredient with strong consumer recognition. Its wide range of applications makes it suitable for bath and body collections, natural inspired product ranges, and everyday personal care products.

Bicarbonate of Soda can be incorporated into both dry and water containing cosmetic formulations depending on the intended product. In dry products such as bath bombs, bath salts, deodorant powders, and cleansing powders, it is blended evenly with the remaining powdered ingredients before fragrances, oils, or liquids are added.

When formulating bath bombs, Bicarbonate of Soda is combined with Citric Acid to produce the familiar fizzing reaction when the finished product is placed in water. Care should be taken to minimise exposure to moisture during manufacturing, as premature contact with water can trigger the reaction before the product is complete.

Typical usage levels vary considerably depending on the formulation. Bath bombs often contain high percentages of Bicarbonate of Soda, while deodorants, cleansers, and exfoliating products generally use lower levels based on the desired performance and skin feel.

Bicarbonate of Soda works well alongside ingredients such as Citric Acid, Kaolin Clay, Arrowroot Powder, Magnesium Hydroxide, and a wide variety of fragrance oils and essential oils. As with all cosmetic formulations, finished products should undergo stability, compatibility, and performance testing before manufacture.

Bicarbonate of Soda offers a wide range of benefits for cosmetic formulators. Its multifunctional nature allows it to contribute to product performance in several ways while remaining easy to formulate and cost effective.

Its deodorising properties make it a popular ingredient in natural deodorants and foot care products. Its gentle cleansing and absorbent characteristics make it suitable for cleansing powders, dry shampoos, and exfoliating products. In bath bombs, it delivers the iconic fizzing effect that has become synonymous with handmade bath products.

Bicarbonate of Soda also supports formulation flexibility, allowing cosmetic brands to develop products across multiple categories using a single versatile raw material. It is recognised by consumers, readily incorporated into many formulations, and suitable for both artisan makers and commercial cosmetic manufacturers.

Its combination of functionality, affordability, and ease of use has made Bicarbonate of Soda an essential ingredient for bath, body, skincare, and personal care product development.

Bicarbonate of Soda works well with many cosmetic ingredients to create effective bath, body, and personal care formulations, including:

• Citric Acid, to create the fizzing reaction in bath bombs.
• Kaolin Clay, to improve skin feel and oil absorption in cleansing products.
• Arrowroot Powder, for smooth, lightweight deodorant and body powder formulations.
• Cream of Tartar, to increase the hardness and durability of bath bombs.