Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric Acid is a cosmetic ingredient used as a buffering agent. It is used in 129 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 4,942 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI namePHOSPHORIC ACID
FunctionBUFFERING
CAS number7664-38-2
EC number231-633-2
Prevalence129 products (0.14% of dataset)
Most used inNail
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies4,942 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches33,100

Used in

Nail Care 58.9%Other Styling 7.8%Makeup Removers 4.7%Other Haircare 3.9%Prescription 3.9%General Moisturizers 3.1%

Frequently asked

What does Phosphoric Acid do in skincare?
Phosphoric Acid functions as a buffering agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is Phosphoric Acid allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain Phosphoric Acid?
It is most commonly found in Nail products, especially nail care (58.9% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using Phosphoric Acid

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.