Potassium Cetyl Phosphate CAS 19035-79-1

Potassium Cetyl Phosphate – Mild Anionic O/W Emulsifier for Cosmetics and Personal Care

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 19035-79-1

• INCI Name: Potassium Cetyl Phosphate

• Synonyms: 1-Hexadecanol dihydrogen phosphate monopotassium salt, Potassium hexadecyl hydrogen phosphate, Potassium monocetyl phosphate

• Appearance: White to beige powder

• HLB Value: ~9.6

• pH (1% aqueous solution): 6.5–8.5

• Solubility: Moderately soluble in water; dispersible in oil phases

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Potassium cetyl phosphate is a mild anionic oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier derived from cetyl alcohol and phosphoric acid, neutralized with potassium. It is a versatile and effective emulsifier widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations. Its amphiphilic structure – combining a hydrophilic phosphate head with a lipophilic cetyl chain – enables the formation of stable emulsions with excellent skin feel. It is particularly valued for its ability to stabilize challenging formulations, including sunscreens, skin care products, and makeup. The ingredient is EO‑free, plant‑derived, and suitable for sensitive skin.

Key Properties

• Effective O/W emulsifier: Stabilizes emulsions with high oil content, including UV filters and emollients.

• Mild and non‑irritating: Low irritation potential, suitable for sensitive skin and baby care.

• Lamellar structure: Forms lamellar surfactant phases that help regulate skin moisture and improve skin feel.

• Water soluble: Easily dissolves in hot water during processing.

• Viscosity building: Enhances the thickness and stability of creams and lotions.

• Compatibility: Works well with a broad variety of oil blends and UV filters.

• Natural origin: Derived from renewable plant‑based sources.

Applications

• Skin care: Creams, lotions, moisturizers, and serums – provides stable emulsions, smooth texture, and good skin conditioning.

• Sun care: Sunscreens and daily moisturizers with SPF – effectively emulsifies UV filters and emollients.

• Color cosmetics: Foundations, primers, and makeup – improves pigment dispersion and application.

• Hair care: Conditioners and styling products – provides conditioning and smoothness.

• Cleansing products: Shower gels, liquid soaps, and personal wash products.

• Other: Can be used as a primary emulsifier or co‑emulsifier with low‑HLB nonionics.

Key Benefits

• Provides excellent O/W emulsification with high stability.

• Mild and non‑irritating – suitable for sensitive skin and dermatological applications.

• Regulates skin moisture and improves sensory feel.

• Enhances emulsion stability and viscosity.

• Compatible with a wide range of oils, emollients, and UV filters.

• EO‑free, plant‑derived, and biodegradable.

• Approved by natural and clean beauty standards.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 0.5–3.0% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability and viscosity. For optimal performance, dissolve in the water phase with heating (60–70°C) before emulsification. Can be combined with low‑HLB co‑emulsifiers for enhanced stability and texture.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well‑tolerated by skin and eyes.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Shelf life: typically 24 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for appearance, pH, acid value, and emulsification performance to ensure consistent quality.