Potassium Laurate
Potassium laurate is a salt of lauric acid, a fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It functions primarily as a cleansing agent and emulsifier in cosmetic formulations. It helps to mix oil and water, creating stable product textures, and effectively removes dirt and oil from skin and hair.
Surfactant
RiskModerate 1.5 / 4
Irritation i1.5 / 4
Risk of short-term irritation — stinging, burning, dryness, redness, or discomfort. Common for strong actives, acids, retinoids, fragrances, and harsh surfactants.
Sensitization i0.5 / 4
Risk of allergic contact dermatitis or immune-based reactions. Fragrance allergens, preservatives, botanicals, and some dyes may score here.
Systemic exposure i0.1 / 4
Whether it has meaningful potential to be absorbed into the body at levels that may matter biologically. Most cosmetic ingredients score low unless there is known concern or high exposure.
Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.
What it helps with
- effective cleansing
- emulsifying properties
Things to watch
- potential for irritation
- can be drying
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Frequently asked questions
- What is potassium laurate derived from?
- Potassium laurate is derived from lauric acid, which is a fatty acid commonly found in plant oils like coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is then reacted with potassium hydroxide to form the salt.
- Is potassium laurate a harsh ingredient?
- As a cleansing agent, potassium laurate can be more alkaline and potentially more irritating or drying for some skin types, especially when used in high concentrations or in rinse-off products. Formulators often combine it with other ingredients to mitigate these effects.
