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POTASSIUM BITARTRATE.

Valuable CAS 868-14-4 / BUFFERING

Potassium Bitartrate, commonly known as Cream of Tartar, is an acidic salt primarily incorporated into skincare formulations as a precise pH regulator. Its main function is to stabilize product pH, ensuring optimal efficacy and skin compatibility, with anecdotal reports also suggesting mild exfoliating and antibacterial benefits.

Summary

pH Adjuster

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates fundamentally by leveraging its acidic properties to regulate and maintain the pH within cosmetic formulations, thereby supporting product stability and performance. While it is a salt derived from tartaric acid, an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), specific clinical evidence detailing its direct mechanism of action on the skin itself is not extensively available. Anecdotal observations propose that its acidic nature may contribute to mild exfoliation by assisting in the removal of dead skin cells and could possess antibacterial qualities beneficial for addressing acne concerns.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3.4 – 3.557
0 7 14

Stability

Potassium Bitartrate exhibits partial solubility in water, with solubility increasing significantly at higher temperatures (0.57 g/100 ml at 20 °C; 6.1 g/100 ml at 100 °C). It is insoluble in alcohol. The ingredient is susceptible to decomposition when exposed to air or heat, forming potassium hydroxide and carbon dioxide. As it is slightly hygroscopic, proper storage in a cool, dry, tightly closed environment away from direct sunlight is crucial to prevent moisture absorption.

Conflicts

  • Alkaline substances
  • Sodium bicarbonate
  • Difficulties in liquid mixtures due to slight solubility

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Deferred evaluation
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deferred its evaluation, recognizing Potassium Bitartrate's 'Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)' designation by the FDA for direct food use and its approval in Over-the-Counter (OTC) antacid drug products. While the EPA generally considers it of low concern, topical application may induce skin irritation, especially at higher concentrations or on sensitive skin, manifesting as itching, swelling, or rash. Allergic reactions, though rare, are possible.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Potassium Bitartrate is a valuable ingredient primarily for its precise role in pH adjustment and formulation stability, with its direct skin benefits for exfoliation or antibacterial action largely suggested by anecdotal evidence rather than clinical studies.

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