What are Sodium Benzoit & Potassium Hydroxide and why are they used?

These are preservatives used most often in food and used in our Skincare and Hair Care products as well, They are allowed by USDA and the EU food regulations and in cosmetics. We use them as they generally rank lower in toxicity than conventional preservatives. The rank a 3 on toxicity in the skin-deep database. They are free from any byproducts or contaminants known to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity as listed under Prop 65 State Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act.