Potassium Sorbate

poh-TAS-ee-um SOR-bate

Preservative 9/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Semi-synthetic Vegan

What Is Potassium Sorbate?

Potassium Sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a natural preservative compound originally derived from the berries of the mountain ash tree. It is one of the mildest preservatives available and is widely used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is particularly effective against yeast and mold, making it a perfect companion to sodium benzoate.

Source: Sorbic acid (found in mountain ash berries), chemically synthesized with potassium hydroxide

Origin: Semi-synthetic

Also known as: E202, Sorbic Acid Potassium Salt

What Does Potassium Sorbate Do to Your Hair?

Potassium Sorbate prevents the growth of yeast and mold in cosmetic formulations by inhibiting their cellular enzyme systems. It works best at acidic pH (below 6) and is typically paired with sodium benzoate, which covers bacterial protection, to create a comprehensive preservation system. It is gentle, stable, and compatible with most cosmetic ingredients.

Best For

All hair types (preservative function, not hair-type specific)

Not Recommended For

Not directly problematic for any hair type

Concentration Matters

0.1-0.6%

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

9/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Extremely safe. One of the mildest preservatives available. CIR panel considers safe at concentrations up to 1.4%. FDA classifies sorbic acid and its salts as GRAS for food use. Very low irritation and sensitization potential. Preferred in natural and organic-certified formulations.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA classifies as GRAS for food use. Permitted in cosmetics without specific restrictions. EU permits use in cosmetics. Approved for organic/natural cosmetic certifications (COSMOS, ECOCERT).

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

Potassium Sorbate is one of the gentlest and most accepted preservatives in clean beauty. HairAide appreciates it as a key component of natural preservation systems. When paired with sodium benzoate, it provides excellent product protection. A great option for those seeking the most natural-leaning preserved products.

Products That Contain Potassium Sorbate

Shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, natural and clean beauty products, organic-certified products

Alternatives to Potassium Sorbate

If you want to avoid Potassium Sorbate, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Potassium Sorbate safe for hair?

Yes, Potassium Sorbate has a safety rating of 9/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Extremely safe. One of the mildest preservatives available. CIR panel considers safe at concentrations up to 1.4%. FDA classifies sorbic acid and its salts as GRAS for food use. Very low irritation and sensitization potential. Preferred in natural and organic-certified formulations.

Is Potassium Sorbate bad for curly hair?

Potassium Sorbate is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Potassium Sorbate CG-method approved?

Yes, Potassium Sorbate is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Potassium Sorbate?

Some alternatives to Potassium Sorbate include: Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment

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