Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate
[CAS# 152312-71-5]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Carboxylic compounds and derivatives
• Name: Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate
• Synonyms: Potassium 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzoate; Potassium methoxysalicylate
• Molecular Formula: C₈H₇KO₄
• Molecular Weight: 206.24
• CAS Registry Number: 152312-71-5
• SMILES: COC1=CC(=C(C=C1)C(=O)[O-])O.[K+]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305-P338-P351

Discovery and Applications

Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate, also known as potassium methoxyphenolate, is the potassium salt formed by the reaction of salicylic acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate. Salicylic acid is an organic acid that occurs naturally in various plants.

Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate is widely used in the cosmetics industry for its skin conditioning and exfoliating properties. It is a keratolytic agent that promotes the shedding of dead skin cells and promotes skin renewal. It is added to skin care formulations such as creams, lotions, serums, and exfoliating scrubs. Additionally, it helps unclog pores, reduce acne breakouts, and relieve skin conditions such as keratosis pilaris and hyperpigmentation. Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate has anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial in treating a variety of inflammatory skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, reducing the redness, swelling, and irritation associated with these skin conditions, relieving pain, and promoting skin healing. Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate is used in hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments for its exfoliating and anti-dandruff properties. Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate is included in sunscreen formulations as a UV filter to provide broad-spectrum protection against the sun's harmful UV radiation. It absorbs UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and skin damage, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate is added to anti-aging skin care products, such as anti-wrinkle creams and serums, for its exfoliating and skin-rejuvenating benefits. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots by boosting collagen synthesis, increasing skin elasticity, and improving overall skin texture. Additionally, it enhances the penetration of other active ingredients, such as retinoids and antioxidants, into the skin, maximizing their anti-aging benefits. Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate has pharmaceutical applications in topical medications for the treatment of skin conditions, such as acne, dermatitis, and fungal infections. It is formulated into creams, ointments, and gels with keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties to relieve the effects of treatments and promote skin health.

References

2021. Liquid Crystals: Characteristics, Types of Phases and Applications in Drug Delivery. Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal, 55, 422-431.
DOI: 10.1007/s11094-021-02396-y

2015. Lamellar Liquid Crystal Improves the Skin Retention of 3-O-Ethyl-Ascorbic Acid and Potassium 4-Methoxysalicylate In Vitro and In Vivo for Topical Preparation. AAPS PharmSciTech, 16, 1351-1358.
DOI: 10.1208/s12249-015-0353-6