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POTASSIUM SILICATE.

Valuable CAS 1312-76-1 / ANTICORROSIVE

A versatile inorganic salt, Potassium Silicate primarily functions as a viscosity controller, pH adjuster, and emulsion stabilizer in skincare formulations. It also offers temporary visual skin-smoothing benefits by forming a thin, firm film on the skin's surface.

Summary

Buffering pH Adjuster Viscosity Controlling Emulsion Stabilizing Film-forming

Science

Mechanism of Action

Potassium Silicate acts mechanically by creating a fine, firm layer on the skin upon drying, which temporarily tightens the skin and visually reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Beyond this cosmetic effect, it regulates formulation consistency as a thickening agent, stabilizes emulsions by preventing ingredient separation, and maintains product integrity by adjusting and buffering pH levels.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
33%

Potassium Silicate is not typically associated with 'dusting' risks. However, dermal irritation has been observed in rabbit studies starting at concentrations of 33%, with irritation potential extending up to 36%. For eye contact, concentrations of 30% and 35% were slightly irritating, though up to 29% was found to be non-irritating.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH ≥11.3
0 7 14

Stability

Dissolving solid Potassium Silicate in water creates an alkaline solution. To achieve optically clear and concentrated stock solutions, a minimum pH of 11.3 is necessary to enhance silicon solubility and ensure stability.

Conflicts

  • acids (may react to release heat and gases)
  • calcium (can affect turbidity of solutions)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Potassium Silicate is safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating, accounting for concentrations and specific uses. It demonstrated no sensitizing potential in guinea pig tests at concentrations up to 30%. Pure Potassium Silicate is strongly alkaline and can cause skin and eye irritation or burns. The FDA has granted it GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status for food use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Potassium Silicate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, supporting product stability and texture while offering temporary visual benefits for skin smoothing, provided it is formulated below established irritation thresholds.

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