Potassium Cetyl Phosphate

Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic salt of cetyl phosphate used in many skin and hair products. It builds and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, improving texture, active dispersion, and giving a light, elegant skin feel.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that gives products a light, elegant, non-greasy feel.
Category
Emulsifying
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Creates smooth, non-greasy application and improves spread of oils and actives. Reduces phase separation for a lighter, more elegant feel on skin and hair.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in sunscreens, lotions, and creams, and in milky serums to keep oil and water unified. Also used in hair conditioners for a silky finish.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Typically well tolerated, but may cause mild irritation, especially around eyes or on damaged skin. Patch testing is prudent for very sensitive users. No common regulatory restrictions noted for cosmetic use.

Is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate a Good Ingredient?

Good rating as a dependable anionic emulsifier that builds stable, lightweight systems and improves spread. As a surfactant-type emulsifier, it can irritate very sensitive or compromised skin, limiting a higher rating.

Products with Potassium Cetyl Phosphate

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