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POTASSIUM PHOSPHATE.

Valuable CAS 7778-77-0 / 16068-46-5 / BUFFERING

Potassium Phosphate is a versatile inorganic salt primarily employed in skincare for its precise pH buffering capabilities, which are crucial for maintaining product stability and supporting the skin's natural acidic mantle. It additionally contributes to skin hydration, acts as an antioxidant, and can enhance the efficacy of other formulation components.

Summary

Buffering agent pH adjuster/regulator Moisturizer Antioxidant Penetration enhancer Preservative booster Emulsifier Emulsion stabilizer Thickener

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by meticulously maintaining the pH balance of cosmetic products, helping to keep the skin's surface within its healthy acidic range (approximately 4.7-5). This optimized pH environment is vital for fortifying the skin barrier against environmental aggressors like microbes and irritants, thereby passively reducing the potential for premature aging and irritation. Furthermore, potassium phosphate assists in moisture retention, promoting soft and vital skin. It exhibits antioxidant properties, capable of neutralizing free radicals that may contribute to skin damage. The ingredient can also improve the adsorption levels of other actives, potentially prolonging their beneficial effects. Specific forms, such as tripotassium phosphate, have been noted to enhance preservative activity, particularly in formulations containing fatty acids.

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 N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Potassium phosphate acts as a buffering agent, critical for stabilizing and maintaining the desired pH of a cosmetic product. Different forms of potassium phosphate exhibit varying inherent pH levels when in solution; for instance, monopotassium phosphate solutions typically average around 5.8, while tripotassium phosphate solutions are notably alkaline, averaging 11. A 1% solution of dipotassium phosphate generally presents a pH between 8.7 and 9.4.

Synergies

  • Fatty acids (for enhanced preservative boosting)
  • Other active ingredients (for improved adsorption and prolonged action)

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Potassium phosphate is safe for use in cosmetic applications. Specifically, Dipotassium Phosphate was found to be safe in current practices of use and concentration, provided the final formulation is non-irritating. No specific maximum concentration for cosmetic use has been established by the CIR, indicating safety based on its general use in non-irritating preparations. The FDA also recognizes various Potassium Phosphates Injections for intravenous medical applications.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Potassium Phosphate is a valuable, multi-functional ingredient that precisely maintains product pH, supports skin barrier integrity, provides hydration, and boosts other ingredient performance.

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