Poor Cosmetic Ingredient GHS Classified

Potassium Sulfide

INCI: POTASSIUM SULFIDE

CAS Number
1312-73-8
Function
Depilatory agent (chemical hair removal via keratin bond cleavage)
Safety Rating
POOR

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status restricted
EU Max Conc. 2%
🇺🇸 US Status permitted
US Notes Permitted in OTC depilatory products under FDA monograph; not for general cosmetic use

For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
not established
Dermal Absorption
high
Sensitization
moderate

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

GHS Hazard Classification

Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.

Short-term Exposure Effects
The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Inhalation may cause lung oedema. See Notes. Exposure at high levels could cause death. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.
Routes of Exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

Expert Verdict

Strong alkaline irritant that liberates H₂S gas (toxic). Must not contact eyes or mucous membranes. Mandatory warning labeling in EU. Not suitable for leave-on products. pH monitoring critical during manufacture.

⚠️
Concern Level: High

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Potassium Sulfide safe in cosmetics?

Strong alkaline irritant that liberates H₂S gas (toxic). Must not contact eyes or mucous membranes. Mandatory warning labeling in EU. Not suitable for leave-on products. pH monitoring critical during manufacture. The EU classifies Potassium Sulfide as "restricted". Safety rating: POOR.

Is Potassium Sulfide allowed in the EU?

Potassium Sulfide EU regulatory status: restricted. Maximum allowed concentration: 2%. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Potassium Sulfide do in cosmetics?

Potassium Sulfide functions as: Depilatory agent (chemical hair removal via keratin bond cleavage). It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 1312-73-8.

What is the Margin of Safety for Potassium Sulfide?

not established The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.

Compliance Tools

Check Potassium Sulfide compliance across multiple jurisdictions:

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Ingredient Decoder
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82 Allergen Checker
Check for EU declarable fragrance allergens
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Substance Compliance
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MoS Calculator
Calculate Margin of Safety using SCCS methodology
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Heavy Metal Limits
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