Potassium Lactate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 996-31-6, Potassium 2-hydroxypropanoate, Monopotassium lactate, Lactic acid, Potassium salt, Conclyte K, Monopotassium 2-hydroxypropanoate, Monopotassium salt, Propanoic acid, Potassium alpha-hydroxypropionate
Synthetic
Humectant
Skin Conditioner
Chemical Exfoliant
Not Clean
Based on the available information included in this report, the CIR Expert Panel concludes that Glycolic and Lactic Acid, their common salts and their simple esters, are safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations less than or equal to 10%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.5, when formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity or when directions for use include the daily use of sun protection. These ingredients are safe for use in salon products at concentrations less than or equal to 30%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.0, in products designed for brief, discontinuous use followed by thorough rinsing from the skin, when applied by trained professionals, and when application is accompanied by directions for the daily use of sun protection...Potassium Lactate...
Formula
C3H5KO3
Mol. Weight
128.17
CAS #
996-31-6, 85895-78-9
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid
Functions
Buffering
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Derived from lactic acid, which occurs naturally during milk fermentation—a process known since ancient times. Potassium lactate was synthesized in the 20th century for use as a skin humectant and pH buffer in modern skincare formulations.
EWG
6
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Phototoxicity Concern
Concentration Guide
Industry max
Industry typically uses up to 11.8% in leave-on products (5 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 758).
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dehydration
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR