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INGREDIENT DICTIONARY

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Potassium Sorbate

INCI: Potassium Sorbate | CAS #: 24634-61-5
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Potassium sorbate is a water-soluble preservative used in cosmetic formulations to support microbial stability in pH-controlled systems.

What is Potassium Sorbate & why is it used?

Potassium Sorbate is used as part of a preservation system to support microbial stability
and is typically used alongside other preservatives.

QUALITY MATTERS

Why specification quality matters

High-purity USP grade Potassium Sorbate with verified assay (99.95%) and low moisture content, supporting consistent formulation performance.

 

Solubility Water soluble
Primary function Preservation
Use level 0.1–0.3%

Behaviour in formulations

Potassium Sorbate performs in aqueous and emulsion systems but requires an acidic pH to function effectively.

Sensory notes

Potassium sorbate does not significantly impact sensory profile and integrates cleanly into formulations.

Formulation considerations

PROCESSING

Add to the water phase with mixing until fully dissolved. Adjust pH after incorporation.

 

COMPATIBILITY
  • Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
  • Works best in combination with sodium benzoate
  • Performance improved with chelating agents
pH
Effective in acidic systems (typically pH <5.5). Requires pH adjustment for optimal performance.
FORMULATION EXAMPLES

Cleanser system

  • Potassium sorbate: 0.1–0.2%
  • Sodium benzoate: 0.2–0.4%
  • Citric acid for pH
  • Surfactant system

 Toner system

  • Potassium sorbate: 0.1–0.2%
  • Chelating agent: as required
  • Humectants and actives

Use level considerations

Recommended range 0.1–0.3%
Suggested starting level 0.15–0.25% in combination systems%

Typically used at 0.1–0.3% and requires pH adjustment for efficacy.

Formulation summary

Potassium Sorbate is a widely used preservative in pH-controlled systems, supporting formulation stability when used appropriately.

Quality notes

High-purity USP grade Potassium Sorbate with verified assay (99.95%) and low moisture content, supporting consistent formulation performance.