Ingredient review
Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide
INCI: SODIUM/ALUMINUM/IRON/SULFATE/TARTARATE/HYDROXIDE
A mineral blend used mainly for color and texture, but with very limited research on its specific cosmetic role.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mixture of minerals (sodium, aluminum, iron, sulfate, tartarate, and hydroxide) that gives products color or helps absorb oil. It's not a star active ingredient—it's more of a supporting player in makeup and powders.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Higher-caution ingredient
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Read the cautions before using
Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A synthetic mineral complex combining several metal ions and sulfate/tartarate groups, often used as a pigment or mattifying agent.
How it works
In a formula, it provides color (especially earthy tones) and can absorb excess oil or moisture, helping powders and foundations feel dry and smooth on the skin.
Pros
Oil control
Helps absorb excess sebum, keeping makeup matte longer.
Natural color
Provides subtle, earthy tones without synthetic dyes.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There is very little published data on its safety or effectiveness in cosmetics.
Potential dryness
May be too absorbent for dry skin, leading to a flaky or tight feeling.
Best for
- People who use mineral makeup and powders
- Those with oily or combination skin looking for oil control
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin who prefer hydrating formulas
Usage tips
Safety summary
Based on limited data, this ingredient appears safe at low concentrations in rinse-off or leave-on products, but more research is needed to confirm long-term safety.
Research notes
No major clinical studies were found specifically on this complex. Its safety is inferred from similar mineral pigments used in cosmetics.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Low (typically under 5%)
- Regulatory status
- Generally permitted in cosmetics in the US and EU, but specific concentration limits may apply for metal content.
- Common uses
- Foundations, Powders, Eye shadows
- Environmental note
- Mining and processing of metal compounds can have environmental impacts; look for brands with responsible sourcing policies.
Good to know
- This ingredient is not commonly found in standalone serums or moisturizers.
- It is often part of a larger mineral pigment blend.
Common questions
What is Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mixture of minerals (sodium, aluminum, iron, sulfate, tartarate, and hydroxide) that gives products color or helps absorb oil. It's not a star active ingredient—it's more of a supporting player in makeup and powders.
What does Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide do in a beauty product?
In a formula, it provides color (especially earthy tones) and can absorb excess oil or moisture, helping powders and foundations feel dry and smooth on the skin.
Is Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide safe for most people?
Based on limited data, this ingredient appears safe at low concentrations in rinse-off or leave-on products, but more research is needed to confirm long-term safety.
Who should be careful with Sodium Aluminum Iron Sulfate Tartarate Hydroxide?
Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin who prefer hydrating formulas
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.