Mineral potassium-based pH buffer. Analogous to sodium phosphates but with a milder profile for very sensitive skin. Used at 0.05-0.5%. Pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional pH buffer – the potassium analogue of sodium phosphates. Safety confirmed by EFSA. No standalone activity.
Potassium Phosphate is an inorganic potassium salt of orthophosphoric acid; in cosmetics it usually appears as Tripotassium Phosphate (K3PO4) or Dipotassium Phosphate (K2HPO4). INCI: Potassium Phosphate. Some labels show the specific form. In cosmetics it works as a pH buffer. Functionally equivalent to disodium phosphate but adds slightly less hardness to the formula and is considered more compatible with very sensitive skin. Use levels are 0.05-0.5%. It appears in formulas with vitamin C, AHAs, niacinamide, peptides – anywhere a stable pH is needed. Pregnancy safety. Topical use is safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. Potassium phosphate is used as an electrolyte additive in pharmacology and nutrition. No teratogenic effects. Skin tolerance. Low irritation and allergen potential. Unlike potassium chlorides, phosphate salts do not leave salt residue on the skin after drying. Comparison with sodium analogues. Sodium and potassium phosphates are functionally almost identical. The potassium form is chosen for low-sodium formulas, low-sodium baby products, and brands aiming at an ultra-mineral clean image. Potassium phosphates are 30-50% more expensive than sodium ones. No standalone active effects. This is a background pH stabilizer without penetrating activity.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
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Potassium Phosphate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Potassium Phosphate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Mineral potassium-based pH buffer.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Potassium Phosphate. It may also appear as: Tripotassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Калия фосфат.
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