Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Anionic emulsifier based on phosphorylated cetyl alcohol. Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and is better tolerated by skin than PEG emulsifiers. Pregnancy-safe.
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 Cetyl Phosphate is a monoester of phosphoric acid and cetyl alcohol (C16), neutralized with potassium hydroxide. INCI: Potassium Cetyl Phosphate. Sold under the Amphisol K brand (DSM). A waxy solid. In cosmetics it works as an o/w emulsifier without ethoxylation – an important property for clean formulas that avoid PEG ethoxylates and the risk of 1,4-dioxane. It stabilizes sunscreens with mineral and chemical filters well and gives a light texture without a waxy sensorial footprint. Use levels run from 1 to 4%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. CIR rates the safety profile as acceptable. Skin profile. Low irritation potential. Low allergen risk – rare for emulsifiers. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin; it is common in sunscreens and serums for atopic skin. No active effects – a functional component.
Frequently asked questions
Is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate safe during pregnancy?
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate for?
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Anionic emulsifier based on phosphorylated cetyl alcohol.
Is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Potassium Cetyl Phosphate?
The INCI name is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate. It may also appear as: Amphisol K.
See Potassium Cetyl Phosphate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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