INCI Name
Potassium Humate
Functions
4 Roles
Sustainability
9/10
Category
actives
What It Does
Potassium Humate is the potassium salt of humic acid, a complex mixture of organic compounds derived from the decomposition of plant and animal matter over thousands of years. In cosmetics, it's valued for its rich content of trace minerals, amino acids, and fulvic acid components that provide skin conditioning, moisture retention, and chelating properties. Formulators choose it for its ability to enhance nutrient delivery, provide antioxidant protection through its phenolic groups, and improve the bioavailability of other active ingredients while offering a natural, earth-derived alternative to synthetic conditioning agents.
Technical Properties
pH Range
8.0-10.0
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
anionic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Ingredient Compatibility
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
plant-derived
Feedstock
Extracted from leonardite, peat, or decomposed organic matter through alkaline extraction
Related Ingredients
Similar humectants to explore
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Potassium Humate
- Common Name
- Potassium Salt of Humic Acid
- Category
- actives
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