Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.
What it is
Potassium cetyl phosphate is the potassium salt of a phosphate ester of cetyl alcohol. Its negative charge helps disperse powders such as mineral UV filters and produces emulsions that hold up well against water and sweat, which is why it appears in sunscreens and in creams with a high pigment or mineral load.
What it does well
Produces stable emulsions and disperses mineral powders well
Anionic phosphate emulsifiers are a formulator's choice where a robust, water-resistant emulsion is required.
Moderate evidence
Where the EU stands
No specific restriction
No EU restriction on use or concentration in cosmetics.
Masks that contain Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Balea
Gesichtsmaske Niacinamide
7th of 17 on the label
Balea
Gesichtsmaske Vitamin C
6th of 23 on the label
Balea MEN
Gesichtsmaske Creme-Gel Hydro
18th of 31 on the label
below ≈1%
Beauty of Joseon
Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask
27th of 35 on the label
below ≈1%
Caudalie
VinoHydra Moisturising Cream Mask (Masque-Creme Hydratant)
16th of 32 on the label
lavera
basis sensitiv Anti-Falten Gesichtsmaske
25th of 42 on the label
below ≈1%