Antimicrobial
SILVER LACTATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A silver salt used for odor and antimicrobial control. Effective, but silver carries argyria and environmental concerns and is increasingly restricted.
Silver lactate (CAS 15768-18-0) is the silver salt of lactic acid, used as an antimicrobial and deodorant agent in cosmetic products. Silver ions are broadly antimicrobial and effective against common body-odor bacteria. However, the EU Cosmetic Regulation restricts silver-based compounds, and chronic silver exposure is associated with argyria — permanent blue-gray discoloration of skin and mucosa. Silver also bioaccumulates in soft tissues and is ecotoxic in aquatic systems. In cosmetics its use should be limited to targeted rinse-off or spot-use products, not whole-body leave-on applications. The prior green-tier score of 80 appears over-generous given these considerations.
Function
Skin benefits
- Silver salt with antimicrobial and deodorant activity
- Useful in targeted body-odor or foot-care applications
- Effective against broad-spectrum bacteria
Known concerns
- EU restricts silver-based cosmetic ingredients
- Argyria (skin/tissue discoloration) risk with chronic silver exposure
- Silver accumulates in body tissues
- Environmental toxicity to aquatic organisms
- Not recommended for leave-on whole-body use
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related antimicrobials
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.