Is Sodium Deoxycholate Vegan? What Is It Made Of?

By Anett Rannamets. Updated: April 2023.
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Sodium deoxycholate is a salt that has fat-breaking properties. It is used in skincare for its sculpting effects. Sodium deoxycholate is a synthetic compound and therefore, it is vegan.

As a newcomer in the topical skincare world, there are no groundbreaking and proven results on sodium deoxycholate’s effects. But let’s find out more about it.

What Is Sodium Deoxycholate? What Is It Made Of?

Sodium deoxycholate is a salt that breaks down certain cells. It acts as a solubilizer and detergent. It also dissolves fat. Sodium deoxycholate is a chemical compound made in a lab.

Although this active ingredient is relatively new to skincare, it is believed to be able to break down fat cells. Thus, it can cause lipolysis. Still, it is not clear what the specific mechanism of action of this ingredient is.

A few studies have shown that it penetrates the skin and then reduces the fat it contains. Whether and how deep the active ingredient reaches is unclear.

Sodium deoxycholate is a synthetic active ingredient. Meaning, that it is produced chemically and is therefore vegan-friendly.

Why Is Sodium Deoxycholate Used In Skincare?

Sodium Deoxycholate is used in skincare because it may have fat-reducing properties. The active ingredient is said to be toning and have an anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating effect.

Most often, the substance is not used topically. It is injected into the skin to break down fat cells and reduce cellulite. This procedure is called mesotherapy, which is an easier way of surgery.

Recently, topical products with sodium deoxycholate have also entered the market. Their goal is to reduce sagging skin, and wrinkles as well as restore the skin’s lost elasticity. Whether sodium deoxycholate has a sculpting effect has not yet been proven.

FAQ About Sodium Deoxycholate

What is sodium deoxycholate?

Sodium deoxycholate is a salt that breaks down certain cells. It acts as a solubilizer and detergent. It also dissolves fat. Sodium deoxycholate is a chemical compound made in a lab.

Why is sodium deoxycholate used in skincare?

Sodium Deoxycholate is used in skincare because it may have fat-reducing properties. The active ingredient is said to be toning and have an anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating effect.

Is sodium deoxycholate vegan?

Yes. Sodium deoxycholate is vegan.

Summary

Sodium deoxycholate is a fairly new topical skin care component that has not yet been sufficiently studied. However, it is synthetically produced and therefore is suitable for vegans.

It is believed that the component has sculpting, anti-aging, and rejuvenating effects. However, sodium deoxycholate has been used for injections for years as it breaks down fat cells.

See also: Best Vegan Skincare Products

Anett is a passionate journalist, writer, and magazine editor with almost 7 years of experience. Through engaging articles, she brings kinder and more environmentally-friendly choices closer to everybody.