Phosphoric Acid
A pH adjuster. It brings the formula's acidity to the right level and does not affect skin in the finished product.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Phosphoric acid (INCI Phosphoric Acid) is a pH adjuster. It is added in minimal amounts to bring the formula's acidity to the value it needs, which keeps other ingredients and preservatives stable. It is a functional component, not a skincare active. It does not treat the skin, and in the finished product its role is limited to setting the pH. You will not feel anything attributable to this ingredient on its own. During pregnancy and breastfeeding it is fine to use. At cosmetic concentrations, neutralized within the formula, it carries no systemic relevance. Tolerance in the finished product is good: low irritation and low allergy potential. Worth knowing that in concentrated form it is a strong acid, but in cosmetics it is used heavily diluted and buffered, so the product suits sensitive skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Phosphoric Acid safe during pregnancy?
Phosphoric Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Phosphoric Acid for?
Phosphoric Acid suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Phosphoric Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
A pH adjuster.
What's the INCI name for Phosphoric Acid?
The INCI name is Phosphoric Acid.
See Phosphoric Acid in a product composition right on the store page
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.
Similar role in the formula
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