Potassium sulfate (K₂SO₄) is an inorganic salt that is most commonly incorporated into cosmetic formulations not for direct skin benefits (such as moisturization or anti‐aging) but rather to optimize the physical properties of the product. Its primary role is as a viscosity controller or thickening agent, meaning it helps to adjust the “gloopiness” or texture of creams, lotions, gels, and other emulsions. This can improve product stability and ensure a uniform consistency that enhances spreadability and consumer experience.
Functional Benefits in Formulations
- Viscosity Regulation: By modulating viscosity, potassium sulfate helps formulators achieve the desired texture in cosmetic products. This can be crucial in creating a product that feels smooth and spreads evenly on the skin.
- Emulsion Stability: In many cosmetic formulations, especially emulsions (mixtures of oil and water), maintaining a stable and homogenous product is key. As a thickening agent, potassium sulfate contributes to the stability of these systems, ensuring that active ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Rheological Adjustment: A properly adjusted viscosity can also affect the product’s application properties—how it feels during application and how it behaves once on the skin—even though it does not directly interact with skin biology.
Use: in any cosmetics formulation
Mixing method: Mix in water (water-phase).
Usage rate: 0.1-1%
Product characteristics: white crystalline powder
Solubility: can dissolve in water
Storage: can be stored at room temperature But close the lid of the bottle tightly. and protected from sunlight or heat, do not expose to moisture The product has a minimum shelf life of 2 years from the date of manufacture.
INCI Name : Potassium sulfate
