Potassium Hydroxide
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is an inorganic base with CAS # 1310-58-3. It is a strongly alkaline compound used in cosmetic formulations primarily to adjust and set the pH of a formula to the desired level. It is functionally similar to sodium hydroxide and is subject to cosmetic restrictions (III/15a, 15d) and has an associated SCCS opinion regarding its use as a callosity softener/remover.
Its primary role is as a pH buffering agent, helping to ensure a cosmetic formula maintains the correct acidity or alkalinity. It is also recognized as a callosity softener/remover in certain applications.
Subject to cosmetic use restrictions (III/15a, 15d) and has an SCCS safety opinion (1527/14). As a strongly alkaline substance, it can be irritating or caustic at high concentrations; its use in finished products is regulated to safe levels.
