Science
Mechanism of Action
No specific mechanism of action on human skin for cosmetic purposes has been identified. In general chemical reactions, potassium tetrathionate acts as an oxidizing or reducing agent. Within biological systems, particularly in microorganisms, it is involved in sulfur metabolism, where enzymes facilitate the oxidation of thiosulfate to tetrathionate.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Potassium tetrathionate is not identified as an ingredient with purported, yet unproven, cosmetic benefits. Instead, the available data highlights a complete absence of identified cosmetic mechanisms or clinical studies for human skin, alongside clear GHS hazard statements indicating skin irritation, rendering it unsuitable for skincare.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Potassium tetrathionate exhibits good water solubility at 232 g/L. It is recognized as an acid-stable source of sulfur and demonstrates greater stability than thiosulfate at low pH in specific environments. Optimal storage conditions to maintain stability are precisely between 2-8 °C.
Safety
Safety Profile
Potassium tetrathionate is classified with GHS (Globally Harmonized System) hazard statements, specifically indicating that it causes skin irritation and serious eye irritation. It has not been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) for safety in cosmetic applications.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Given the explicit GHS hazard statements indicating skin irritation and the complete absence of identified cosmetic benefits or a mechanism of action on human skin, Potassium Tetrathionate should be avoided in skincare formulations.
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References
Sources