Good Looking
Potassium Hydroxide
Quick Info: Strong alkaline ingredient used to adjust pH and enhance effectiveness of depilatory creams
What it is: A powerful alkaline compound (caustic potash) used in hair removal products to adjust pH levels and enhance the hair-dissolving action of active ingredients.
Function in Hair Removal:
- Adjusts product pH to optimal alkaline levels for hair dissolution
- Enhances effectiveness of thioglycolic acid compounds
- Helps break down keratin protein structure in hair
- Often combined with calcium thioglycolate for maximum effect
Benefits:
- Significantly improves hair removal effectiveness
- Allows for shorter application times
- Works on resistant and coarse hair types
- Precise pH control for consistent results
Typical Usage: Professional strength depilatory creams, salon treatments, and maximum strength formulations. Usually 0.5-2% concentration.
Safety Notes: FDA-approved with strict concentration limits. Highly caustic – can cause severe burns if misused. Never exceed recommended application times.
« Back to Glossary Index
