Potassium Stearate

Potassium Stearate is the potassium salt of stearic acid, a water-dispersible soap base and surfactant. It provides cleansing lather, stabilizes emulsions, and tunes viscosity in bars, creams, and pastes.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A soap-based ingredient that creates lather and stabilizes creams.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Creates a satisfying lather and helps lift away oil and debris for a cleaner feel. Contributes to a smooth, stable texture that spreads easily on skin.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often found in bar soaps, facial cleansers, and shaving creams to deliver cleansing foam. Also used in cream washes and paste formats for structure and slip.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Potassium Stearate is generally considered safe for cosmetic use and has a long history of use in soap and cleansing products. Some individuals with very sensitive or dry skin may find certain soap-based surfactants mildly drying depending on the formulation.

Is Potassium Stearate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good because it's an effective cleansing agent that helps lift dirt and excess oil from skin, and while it's primarily a functional ingredient rather than a targeted skincare active, it reliably contributes to the effectiveness of many cleansing formulas.

Products with Potassium Stearate

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