Potassium Chloride
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Sodium Chloride
Naturally occurring salt | Helps increase a formula’s viscosity
At a glance
Things to be aware of
EWG Safety Score
What Is Potassium Chloride?
Potassium chloride is a salt composed of potassium and chlorine. This naturally occurring ingredient is used orally and intravenously in medical settings to correct potassium deficiencies. It is also used as a food additive and, in some cases, a salt substitute.
In cosmetics, potassium chloride is used to help improve a product’s texture, specifically to increase a formula’s viscosity.
Research has found that in concentrations of 60% or higher, potassium chloride can cause skin irritation; however, its usage level in cosmetics is well below that number. The typical use level of potassium chloride in cosmetics ranges from 0.1–5%, with the latter amount being more common in items like bath salts and bath bombs.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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ScienceDirect.com, Website, Accessed March 2025 [https://hpvchemicals.oecd.org/ui/handler.axd?id=2956d0b6-b409-46f0-8e89-a769869fd00d]
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CoSmile Europe, Website, Accessed March 2025 [https://cosmileeurope.eu/inci/detail/12641/potassium-chloride/]
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Website, Accessed March 2025 [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/potassium-chloride/]
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- POTASSIUM CHLORIDE
- INN Name
- potassium chloride
- EC Number
- 231-211-8
- Pharmacopoeia Name
- kalii chloridum
- Function
- Viscosity Controlling
From the Clinic
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