Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Used as a cleansing agent and emulsifier | Is a white or beige powder in its raw form
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EWG Safety Score
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What Is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate?
Potassium cetyl phosphate is used as a cleansing agent and emulsifier in skin care products. It is highly valued for its versatility as a gentle stabilizing emulsifier in sunscreen formulations.
It is the potassium salt of a mixture of esters of phosphoric acid and cetyl alcohol, a non-irritating fatty alcohol. In its raw form, it is a white or beige powder.
The highest reported concentration of potassium cetyl phosphate in cosmetics is 8.3%, an amount used in mascaras. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled potassium cetyl phosphate is safe as used in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Fiume, M, et al., Safety Assessment of Alkyl Phosphates as Used in Cosmetics, International Journal of Toxicology, 2019, pages 12S-32S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581819856582]
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Why Is Potassium Cetyl Phosphate Used? - The Dermatology Review, Elle MacLeman, 11.16.22 [https://thedermreview.com/potassium-cetyl-phosphate/]
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Potassium Cetyl Phosphate (Emulsifier) - Cosmetics, SpecialChem [https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/inci/potassium-cetyl-phosphate]
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