Silver Hydroxide (AgOH) is an inorganic compound with notable antimicrobial properties. It is utilized in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its effectiveness in skin care formulations. Silver Hydroxide is appreciated for its ability to combat microbial growth, making it a valuable component in various products.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Silver Hydroxide is composed of silver ions (Ag+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). The compound typically forms as a white to light brown precipitate when silver nitrate reacts with an alkaline hydroxide solution.

Molecular Formula: AgOH
Key Functional Groups: Silver ion (Ag+) and hydroxide ion (OH-)
Physical Properties
Silver Hydroxide typically appears as a white or light brown solid. It is slightly soluble in water and decomposes upon heating to form silver oxide (Ag2O) and water. Its antimicrobial properties are due to the release of silver ions.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Antimicrobial Agent: Silver Hydroxide is used in skincare products for its antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce bacterial growth and prevent infections.

Preservative: It acts as a preservative in cosmetic formulations, extending the shelf life by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms.

Skin Conditioning: Silver Hydroxide can be included in formulations designed to improve skin health, particularly in products targeting acne and other skin conditions.

Wound Care: Due to its ability to combat bacteria, it is used in wound care products to promote healing and prevent infection.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Silver Hydroxide is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when used within recommended concentrations. However, it is important to handle it with care to avoid prolonged skin contact or inhalation. Regulatory guidelines should be followed to ensure consumer safety. The environmental impact of silver compounds should be considered, particularly their potential effects on aquatic ecosystems.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions


Antioxidant agent. Ingredient that counteracts oxidative stress and prevents cell damage. Free radicals, pathological inflammatory processes, reactive nitrogen species and reactive oxygen species are responsible for the ageing process and many diseases caused by oxidation.

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
Synonyms:

CAS: 12673-77-7