Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, used as a mild preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and some bacterial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is most effective at acidic pH and is often combined with other preservatives for broad-spectrum protection.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Transient redness or stinging, more likely at higher concentrations or on compromised skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization has been documented in patch-test studies but is infrequent. |
| Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated reports of immediate localized hives following topical exposure. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.