Potassium Carrageenan
AKA “Potassium salt of carrageenan, Carrageenan potassium”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Potassium carrageenan
AKA: Potassium salt of carrageenan, Carrageenan potassium
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Marine
Synthetic
Clean
A natural thickener derived from seaweed that helps create smooth, creamy textures and keeps products from separating over time.
CAS #
64366-24-1
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Creates Protective Barrier
Controls Viscosity
Traditional Use
Carrageenan, derived from red seaweed, has been used in food and cosmetics since at least the 15th century in Ireland and Scotland. The potassium salt form was developed in the 20th century as a more soluble thickening and gelling agent.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 2%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 680).
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR