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POTASSIUM HYDROXYCITRATE.

Insufficient Data CAS 232281-44-6 / SKIN CONDITIONING

Potassium Hydroxycitrate is the potassium salt of (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a derivative of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). It is recognized for its potential to inhibit fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis, alongside reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it relevant for skin aging improvement and exfoliation.

Summary

Exfoliant Moisturizer Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient, particularly its acid form (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), acts as a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme ATP-citrate lyase, which is crucial for fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis. Beyond this metabolic role, it has also demonstrated potential for antioxidation and anti-inflammatory activity within biological systems.

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 N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Potassium Hydroxycitrate is highly hygroscopic, readily absorbing moisture from the air to form a paste. It is also susceptible to degradation in acidic environments, leading to potential loss of its pharmacological availability due to reactions with compounds like tannins, gums, fibers, and pectins. To ensure stability in formulations, special precautions such as coating or granulation are necessary to enhance acid resistance and mitigate water absorption.

Conflicts

  • acids
  • tannins
  • gums
  • fibers
  • pectins

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Unknown

Potassium Hydroxycitrate has not undergone a specific safety review by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. However, related Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), such as citric acid from which hydroxycitric acid is derived, have established safety guidelines: they are considered safe when used at concentrations ≤10%, in formulations with a final pH ≥3.5, and when daily sun protection is advised for the user. As an over-the-counter cosmetic ingredient, it is not subject to pre-market regulatory approval by the U.S. FDA, and no specific SCCS opinion has been issued.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Insufficient Data

Given the promising mechanistic data regarding its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and AHA-like properties, Potassium Hydroxycitrate holds potential for skincare; however, the absence of specific clinical studies and dedicated safety reviews for topical application necessitates further research before a definitive recommendation.

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