Potassium C9-15 Alkyl Phosphate
AKA “Anionic surfactant
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Potassium c9-15 alkyl phosphate
AKA: Anionic surfactant
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
Potassium salt of a complex mixture of esters of synthetic C9-15 alcohols with phosphoric acid Science: Functions: Surfactant - Cleansing Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
CAS #
90506-45-9; 17026-85-6; 19035-79-1; 84861-79-0; 190454-07-0; 39322-78-6
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Removes Impurities
Traditional Use
A synthetic surfactant and emulsifier from mid-20th century development. No traditional use; engineered to replace natural soap and plant-derived emulsifiers in standardized cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
EWG
4
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR