
THE STORY OF ORTHOPHOSPHORIC ACID
Orthophosphoric Acid: Precision pH Control for Safe, Stable Formulations
Orthophosphoric Acid (H₃PO₄) is a high-purity inorganic acid widely used in cosmetic formulations for its precise pH-adjusting and buffering capabilities. It enhances stability, improves preservative efficiency, and ensures safe product performance—making it a key ingredient in modern formulation chemistry.
Manufactured with Precision from High-Purity Mineral Sources
Derived from refined phosphate minerals, Orthophosphoric Acid is produced through carefully controlled chemical reactions and multi-stage purification. Each batch undergoes strict filtration to meet cosmetic-grade purity standards, ensuring low impurities, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
The Backbone of pH Balance in Modern Skincare
In cosmetic applications, Orthophosphoric Acid serves as an essential pH adjuster and buffering agent. It helps maintain optimal acidity levels, enhances formulation stability, and improves preservative action. Suitable for serums, gels, exfoliants, hair products, and any formula requiring precise pH control.
Safe, Controlled, and Formulator-Friendly
Commonly used in skincare, haircare, oral-care products, and controlled exfoliating formulas.
Recommended usage: typically 0.1–1%, depending on pH requirements.
Store in corrosion-resistant containers in cool, dry conditions. Non-flammable and stable when used correctly, it is fully compliant with cosmetic safety standards and suitable for regulated formulation environments.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Orthophosphoric Acid?
Orthophosphoric Acid, commonly known as Phosphoric Acid, is a mineral acid widely used in personal care and cosmetic formulations. It functions primarily as a pH adjuster, buffering agent, and exfoliant, helping to stabilize and enhance product performance.
2. What is the CAS Number and INCI Name of Orthophosphoric Acid?
CAS Number: 7664-38-2
INCI Name: Phosphoric Acid
3. What are the benefits of Orthophosphoric Acid in personal care products?
Orthophosphoric Acid provides several key benefits, including:
- pH Regulation: Helps maintain the correct pH balance in formulations.
- Exfoliation: Acts as a mild acid to promote skin renewal and remove dead skin cells.
- Product Stability: Prevents unwanted chemical reactions and maintains formulation integrity.
- Metal Ion Control: Helps to chelate metal ions, reducing degradation in cosmetic formulations.
4. In which personal care products is Orthophosphoric Acid commonly used?
Orthophosphoric Acid is widely used in:
- Facial peels and exfoliating products (as a pH adjuster and exfoliant)
- Shampoos and conditioners (to stabilize formulations and balance pH)
- Toothpaste and oral care products (for plaque removal and tartar control)
- Cleansers and toners (for mild exfoliation and skin clarity)
- Hair dyes and color treatments (to optimize color retention and performance)
5. Is Orthophosphoric Acid safe for skin?
Yes, Orthophosphoric Acid is considered safe when used at appropriate concentrations in personal care products. However, high concentrations can cause skin irritation, so it is typically used in diluted forms.
6. Can Orthophosphoric Acid be used in natural or organic formulations?
Since Orthophosphoric Acid is a mineral-derived acid, it is not considered a natural ingredient, but it is commonly used in clean beauty and scientifically formulated products.
7. How does Orthophosphoric Acid help in pH balancing?
Orthophosphoric Acid adjusts the acidity or alkalinity of a formulation, ensuring that products remain stable and effective for their intended use.
8. Does Orthophosphoric Acid have any exfoliating properties?
Yes, due to its acidic nature, it can help remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal when used in facial peels and exfoliating treatments.
9. What precautions should be taken when handling Orthophosphoric Acid?
When using high concentrations, it is important to handle it with care, as it can be corrosive in its pure form. In personal care formulations, it is used in safe, controlled amounts to avoid irritation.
10. How should Orthophosphoric Acid be stored?
Store Orthophosphoric Acid in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat, in a well-sealed container to prevent contamination or degradation.