Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate

INCI: Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate

Origin

Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate are plant-derived organic acid salts used together as a preservation system in water-based skincare.

Sodium Levulinate is the sodium salt of levulinic acid, which can be derived from plant sugars such as sugar cane or corn. Sodium Anisate is the sodium salt of anisic acid, a compound associated with star anise. The blend used by AREUM is supplied in a base of glycerine and water, allowing it to disperse evenly throughout a water-based formula.

How AREUM Uses Them

We use Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate in Guardian Antioxidant Serum to protect the water-based formula against unwanted microbial growth.

Any formulation containing water requires an effective preservation system. These ingredients work together to help control bacteria, yeasts and moulds, protecting the integrity of Guardian throughout its intended shelf life and period of use.

Why AREUM Chose Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate

We chose this combination because it offers broad antimicrobial protection while remaining aligned with AREUM’s commitment to thoughtfully selected, naturally derived ingredients. Together, the two ingredients provide more complete protection than either could achieve alone, and both are water-soluble, allowing them to integrate seamlessly into Guardian without adding oil, heaviness or a noticeable sensory impact. The system is also recognised by natural cosmetic standards, including COSMOS and Ecocert.

Their performance relies on the formula being maintained within a carefully controlled pH range, making them especially well suited to Guardian’s overall design, where pH, stability and microbiological protection are considered from the outset rather than added later.