PLDEFRESITJęzyk: polski
INCI name

CALCIUM HYDROXIDE

Calcium hydroxide

Bufferingreviewed

A strong alkali used to adjust pH.

What it is

Calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) is an inorganic base. CosIng lists it as buffering. It is regulated in Annex III of the EU Cosmetics Regulation.

Where it is used

Found in hair straighteners and relaxers, depilatories and as a pH adjuster in other products.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

Annex III sets limits that depend on the product type, such as hair straighteners and depilatories; see the EU regulation section for the applicable limits.

Functions

Buffering
Stabilising the pH of an aqueous medium in a narrow range even if an acid or base is added. Altering and/or maintaining a cosmetic product's pH at the desired level.

EU regulation

EU · Annex III, entry 15cCalcium hydroxide
Product type
(a) Hair straighteners containing two components: calcium hydroxide and a guanidine salt (b) pH ajuster for depilatories (c) Other uses (e.g. pH adjuster, processing aid)
Maximum concentration
(a) 7% (as calcium hydroxide)
Conditions and warnings
(a) Contains alkali Avoid contact with eyes Keep out of reach of children Can cause blindness (b) Contains alkali Keep out of reach of children Avoid contact with eyes
As of
3 November 2026 · (EC) 2009/1223

Products with this ingredient (57)

Check a full ingredient list