A saline buffer carrier. It holds pH and stabilizes actives and does not affect skin in the finished product.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A technical buffer carrier. Safe at cosmetic levels.
Phosphate Buffered Saline (INCI Phosphate Buffered Saline) is a salt solution with a phosphate buffer, a physiological medium close in composition to body fluids. In cosmetics it serves as a carrier and pH stabiliser: it holds the right acidity and protects sensitive actives such as peptides and extracts. On efficacy, this is a functional carrier and pH adjuster, not a skincare active. On its own it has no effect on the skin in a finished product; its job is to ensure the stability of the other components of a formula. On an ingredient list next to biotech actives it looks appropriate. During pregnancy and breastfeeding it can be used. Applied topically the buffer is systemically negligible, with no restrictions. Tolerance is good. The irritation potential is low, the allergy risk is low, and the ingredient suits sensitive skin. The balanced saline environment is gentle by nature, so reactions to it are rare even on reactive skin.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Phosphate Buffered Saline is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Phosphate Buffered Saline suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A saline buffer carrier.
The INCI name is Phosphate Buffered Saline. It may also appear as: Фосфатно-солевой буфер, PBS.
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