Potassium Benzoate
A preservative. It protects the formula from bacteria and mold 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
Potassium Benzoate is the potassium salt of benzoic acid, a preservative. INCI: Potassium Benzoate. In a formula it protects the product from bacteria, yeast, and mold, extending shelf life. It works actively in an acidic environment, so it is used in low-pH formulas. It is a functional component of the preservation system, not a skincare active. Without preservatives, water-containing cosmetics spoil quickly and become unsafe. Pregnancy safety. At permitted concentrations topical use is systemically negligible, with no evidence of harm. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. At working concentrations, irritation and allergen potential are low.
Frequently asked questions
Is Potassium Benzoate safe during pregnancy?
Potassium Benzoate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Potassium Benzoate for?
Potassium Benzoate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Potassium Benzoate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A preservative.
What's the INCI name for Potassium Benzoate?
The INCI name is Potassium Benzoate.
See Potassium Benzoate 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
Other functional ingredients
Potassium Bitartrate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Potassium Cocoate, Sucrose Laurate, Calcium Hydroxide, Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer, Olus Oil
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