Science
Mechanism of Action
Functioning as an emulsifier, Potassium Stearate facilitates the homogeneous blending of immiscible oil and water phases, ensuring uniform product consistency. As a surfactant and cleansing agent, it effectively lifts and removes dirt and oils from skin surfaces. Furthermore, it acts as a thickener and stabilizer, improving product viscosity and stability, and can also generate foam.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Potassium Stearate is soluble in hot water and alcohol, and slowly in cold water. Its aqueous solutions are alkaline, approximately pH 10, indicating pH sensitivity. Compatibility with acidic ingredients or low pH formulations is limited due to potential hydrolysis or other reactions that may impact product stability and efficacy.
Conflicts
- acidic ingredients
- low pH formulations
- hard water (forms calcium soap)
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel ruled Potassium Stearate safe for use in cosmetics at levels up to 12%, with a specific limit of 7.5% for leave-on products. It is considered virtually non-toxic with a low potential for acute skin toxicity, demonstrating only minimal to mild irritation in skin studies even at high concentrations. While prolonged contact might induce mild skin irritation in some individuals, and direct eye contact can cause irritation, it is not expected to be a skin sensitizer. The FDA has also designated it as safe for general or specific, limited use in food.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Potassium Stearate is a valuable, well-tolerated functional ingredient essential for creating stable, consistent, and effective cleansing and moisturizing formulations across all skin types, with a maximum concentration of 12% in cosmetics.
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References
Sources