The Index · Processing aid / pH adjuster

Potassium Hydroxide

Potassium Hydroxide is a strong alkali used in tiny amounts to set formula pH.

FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits

Written byTheSkindex Desk

Reviewed byNot yet reviewed

Last updated5 Oct 2026

Sources2 cited

Potassium Hydroxide is a strong alkali used in tiny amounts to set formula pH.

What it does

Supports the formula as a processing aid / ph adjuster line item on cosmetic labels.

The evidence

Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): Conventional cosmetic INCI with established use context from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer definitions and INCI databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].

How to use it

Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labelled as a featured active.

What it does in the formula

Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits

Potassium Hydroxide is a strong alkali used in tiny amounts to set formula pH.[1]

Safety & limits

Source and region, always

all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK

Sources · 2

Numbered as cited in the text

[1]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment. CIR (2010)regulator
[2]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Potassium Hydroxide. SpecialChem (2024)other

Revision history

18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk