Potassium Sorbate
포타슘솔베이트
A common preservative used to prevent the growth of mold and yeast.
What is Potassium Sorbate?
CAS Number
24634-61-5
Formula
C6H7KO2
Molecular Weight
150.22 g/mol
Also known as: POTASSIUM SORBATE, Sorbistat potassium, Sorbic acid potassium salt, BB Powder, Sorbic acid, potassium salt
What does Potassium Sorbate do for skin?
Potassium Sorbate functions as an antimicrobial preservative within cosmetic formulations. It inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and certain bacteria by disrupting their cell membranes and interfering with critical enzymatic systems, particularly those involved in glucose metabolism. This action prevents microbial spoilage of the cosmetic product, thereby maintaining its safety and efficacy for application to the skin.
Typical concentration: 0.1-0.6% (most commonly 0.1-0.3% when used alone or as part of a preservative blend).
Is Potassium Sorbate safe?
The CIR Expert Panel found Potassium Sorbate safe as used in cosmetic formulations. It is generally well-tolerated, though rare cases of mild skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis have been reported, primarily at higher concentrations or in susceptible individuals.
What does the research say about Potassium Sorbate?
Final report on the safety assessment of sorbic acid and potassium sorbate
Johnson W Jr., International Journal of Toxicology, 2008
Allergic contact dermatitis from potassium sorbate
Kootstra AC, Van Rhee BM, Hulsebosch ALAD, Contact Dermatitis, 2005
Contact allergy to preservatives: an update
Lundov LG, Johansen JD, Veien NK, Contact Dermatitis, 2009