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Moumoujus

POTASSIUM BROMIDE.

Questionable CAS 7758-02-3 / VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Potassium bromide is a crystalline salt historically recognized for its pharmaceutical applications, particularly as an anticonvulsant and sedative. Currently, there is no established role or benefit for this ingredient in topical skincare formulations.

Summary

Viscosity controlling

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a systemic drug, potassium bromide's primary mechanism involves the bromide ion increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibition in the central nervous system, leading to neuronal hyperpolarization. However, there is no direct, established mechanism of action on the skin for cosmetic benefits. One study suggests bromide may contribute to type IV collagen assembly, relevant to basement membrane health, but this is not specific to topical cosmetic application. Conversely, bromides have been implicated in stimulating inflammatory processes and forming potentially detrimental bromine radicals under UV irradiation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Aqueous solutions of potassium bromide are neutral, typically maintaining a pH of approximately 7. It is a highly stable crystalline solid in water but is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture from the air. Optimal storage involves a tightly closed container between 15-30°C (59-86°F) in a dry, well-ventilated environment.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids
  • Heavy metal salts
  • Aluminum
  • Potassium (elemental)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Unknown

Potassium bromide transitioned from an over-the-counter medication to a prescription-only drug in the US in 1975 due to potential side effects from oral administration, including bromism (neurological symptoms, gastrointestinal upset, skin lesions like panniculitis and acne). It is currently utilized as an antiepileptic in veterinary medicine. Neither the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel nor the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has specifically reviewed potassium bromide for safety in cosmetic applications. The FDA lists it as a food additive/contact substance but does not regulate it for cosmetics or prohibit its use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

With no established topical cosmetic benefits, potential for adverse skin reactions, and a complete lack of dedicated safety assessments for cosmetic use, potassium bromide is a questionable ingredient for skincare formulations.

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