Potassium Stearate
INCI: POTASSIUM STEARATE
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
A potassium salt surfactant that cleanses and stabilises emulsions
Best For Skin Types
All
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Potassium Stearate?
Potassium stearate is a potassium salt derived from stearic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. It functions as a surfactant and emulsifier in skincare formulations, meaning it helps oil and water mix together and can assist in removing oil-based impurities from the skin.
It appears in a small proportion of skincare products, typically in cleansers and emulsified formulations where its role is primarily structural rather than targeted for specific skin benefits.
How It Works
Potassium stearate molecules have a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail. This dual nature allows them to surround oil-based particles on the skin and suspend them in water, enabling them to be rinsed away. In formulations, they also sit at the boundary between oil and water phases, preventing separation and maintaining product texture.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research specifically investigating potassium stearate's efficacy in skincare is limited. Its primary role in cosmetic formulations is as a functional ingredient for cleansing and emulsion stability, rather than as a targeted treatment for specific skin concerns. The ingredient has a long history of use in personal care products and is generally recognised as safe by regulatory bodies.
Published Research
How to Use
Potassium stearate is typically encountered in cleansing products rather than serums or treatment formulations. Use products containing it as directed on the label; in cleansers, massage gently onto damp skin and rinse thoroughly with water.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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