Common Name(s): Sodium heparin,sodium heparin,heparin,highly sulfated gag anti-inflammatory
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides highly sulfated gag anti-inflammatory activity through fgf and tgf-beta growth factor binding for scar formation modulation, plus anti-coagulant activity for redness and bruising reduction.
Why It's Used: Sodium heparin is selected for its unique growth factor sequestration mechanism — the highly sulfated gag backbone binds fgf, tgf-beta, and egf with high affinity, modulating wound healing and scar formation in a way no simple anti-inflammatory can.
How It Works: Heparin sulfate groups → fgf/tgf-β binding → modulated growth factor gradient → organised wound healing; electrostatic anti-inflammatory → reduced mast cell degranulation.
Typically Found In: Anti-inflammatory,scar care,sensitive skin
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – humectant
Secondary Functions: Moisture retention,hydration
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–3%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: No - animal-derived
Halal Status: Conditional - animal origin stated in the record's own description; documentation required
Source Notes: Plant-derived or fermentation-produced. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: pass-1 miss: the record's own detail text states an animal derivation, but pass 1 classified on the name and source_notes only. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; suitable for sensitive skin.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Ceramides,emollients,occlusives,barrier actives
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Sodium heparin in cosmetics is distinct from pharmaceutical anticoagulant heparin — the cosmetic grade provides ecm-supportive activity at concentrations below systemic anticoagulant threshold.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,sodium heparin gag anti-inflammatory review