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Moumoujus

POTASSIUM CETYL PHOSPHATE.

Valuable CAS 84861-79-0; 19035-79-1 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is a versatile anionic emulsifier and surfactant, crucial for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions. It also benefits the skin by enhancing the lipid barrier and supporting hydration, while acting as an effective cleansing agent and boosting SPF in sunscreens.

Summary

Emulsifying agent Surfactant Cleansing agent Skin barrier enhancer Hydration booster SPF booster Water resistance improver

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient primarily functions as an emulsifier, expertly blending typically immiscible oil and water phases to form stable emulsions. As an anionic surfactant, it aids in cleansing by emulsifying oily components and impurities, making them easier to rinse away. Structurally analogous to natural skin phospholipids, it helps fortify the skin's lipid barrier, thereby reducing transdermal water loss and improving elasticity, contributing to overall skin hydration. In sunscreen formulations, it is recognized for its ability to boost SPF protection and enhance water resistance.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

Potassium Cetyl Phosphate exhibits high physical and chemical stability, making it effective for stabilizing even challenging oil-in-water emulsions. It maintains compatibility across a wide pH range (4-9 for general formulation), with optimal stability noted between pH 5.0 and 6.5. It is compatible with non-polar and polar oils, UV filters, and electrolyte-containing systems. This ingredient enhances product consistency, spreadability, and demonstrates improved resistance to shear, heat, and freeze-thaw cycles. For incorporation, it is typically mixed into the oil phase at approximately 90°C.

Synergies

  • Non-polar oils
  • Polar oils
  • UV filters
  • Electrolyte-containing systems

Conflicts

  • Potential incompatibilities depend on the complete final formulation and should be monitored during storage.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used with restrictions
Max tested
8.3%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is safe in cosmetic applications when formulated to be non-irritating, consistent with current usage practices and concentrations. The highest reported concentration in leave-on products is 8.3%, specifically in mascara. While generally considered safe, some animal studies indicated a potential for ocular and skin irritation at significantly higher concentrations than those used in cosmetics.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is a valuable, stable, and skin-compatible ingredient, foundational for robust cosmetic formulations and offering direct benefits for skin barrier integrity and hydration.

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