Cosmetic Active System

Potassium Methoxysalicylate

A water-soluble cosmetic active for brightening, even-tone, and pigmentation-focused formulations.
Potassium Methoxysalicylate, commonly referred to in the market as 4MSK, is an off-white crystalline powder used in brightening and even-tone skincare formulations. Our supplied material has an assay specification of at least 98% and is soluble in water and glycerol, making it suitable for serums, essences, masks, and emulsions.
Potassium Methoxysalicylate
INCI
Potassium Methoxysalicylate
CAS
152312-71-5
Assay
>=98%
Appearance
Off-white crystalline powder
Solubility
Soluble in water and glycerol
Product Overview

4MSK and Potassium Methoxysalicylate

4MSK is commonly used in the market to refer to Potassium Methoxysalicylate, also known chemically as potassium 4-methoxysalicylate. When sourcing this ingredient, buyers should evaluate the actual supplier specification, assay, impurity profile, solubility, batch COA, and formulation performance rather than relying only on the familiar 4MSK name.
Buyer decision path

Why Formulators Evaluate Potassium Methoxysalicylate

Potassium Methoxysalicylate, often searched as 4MSK, is the potassium salt of 4-methoxysalicylic acid. Its water-compatible profile and published ingredient-level research make it relevant for brightening products that target visible dullness, pigmentation, and uneven-looking tone.
01

Brightening & Even-Tone Positioning

Published laboratory research reports effects on melanin-related pathways, including reduced melanin content and tyrosinase activity. This supports evaluation in cosmetic formulas for radiance and more even-looking skin tone.
02

Keratinization-Focused Research

Research also reports effects on keratinocyte differentiation and stratum-corneum desquamation, providing an additional formulation story for visible dullness and uneven-looking skin surface.
03

Water-Phase Formulation

Potassium Methoxysalicylate is soluble in water and glycerol according to our SDS. It can therefore be evaluated in water-rich serums, essences, masks, gel creams, and emulsions.
Formula concepts

Why Choose Noyain for Potassium Methoxysalicylate

98%+ Assay

Potassium Methoxysalicylate with an assay specification of ≥98%, supplied as an off-white crystalline powder and soluble in water and glycerol.

COA, SPEC & SDS Available

Get the current COA, product specification and SDS for quality review and supplier qualification before placing a bulk order.

Sample Available for Formula Testing

Request a sample to test solubility, compatibility and stability in your formulation before confirming MOQ, packaging and lead time.
Formulation notes

How to Use 4MSK in Formulations

4MSK refers to Potassium Methoxysalicylate. For formulation development, start with a 0.5%–2.0% evaluation range and confirm the final use level through stability, compatibility and finished-product testing.
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Recommended Evaluation Range

Start evaluation at 0.5%-2.0% according to our product specification. Select the final level through finished-formula stability, safety, efficacy, regulatory, and cost-in-use review.

Pre-Dissolve Before Addition

Potassium Methoxysalicylate is soluble in water and glycerol. Pre-dissolve the ingredient before adding it to the main batch and confirm that the solution is clear at the intended concentration.

Add Through the Water Phase

For serums, essences, masks, lotions and emulsions, it can be introduced through the water phase after pre-dissolution. Check for precipitation during cooling and after storage.

Check Finished-Formula pH

The raw-material specification lists a pH range of 6.5–7.5, but this should not be treated as the required pH range of the finished product. Determine the appropriate formula pH through compatibility and stability testing.

Protect from Light

Prolonged light exposure may cause color change. Protect the raw material and finished formula from unnecessary light exposure and monitor color, pH and precipitation during stability testing.

Test Compatibility with Other Actives

When combining Potassium Methoxysalicylate with acids, salts, preservatives, botanical extracts or other brightening ingredients, test the complete formula for clarity, color, pH and stability before scale-up.
Technical Specifications

Product Technical Parameters

Parameter
Specification
Trade Name
4MSK
INCI Name
Potassium Methoxysalicylate
CAS No.
152312-71-5
Molecular Weight
206.24 g/mol
Appearance
Off-white crystalline powder
Function
Brightening and even-tone formulation support
Storage
Keep sealed in a cool, dry place and protect from direct light
Recommended Evaluation Range 
0.5%-2.0%
Shelf Life
2 years
Document support

Supply Support for 4MSK Projects

  • Potassium Methoxysalicylate sample
  • Current batch COA
  • Product Specification Sheet
  • Latest available SDS/MSDS
  • Quotation with MOQ, lead time, packaging, and batch availability
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Related Documents

Technical Support Materials

COA Document
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TDS (Technical Data Sheet)
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Formulation Guide
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Related Topics

Product-related articles

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Evaluate Potassium Methoxysalicylate for Your Formula

Request a sample, current COA, specification, SDS, and quotation. Tell us your product type, target market, and expected volume, and we will help you evaluate the appropriate material and sourcing route.
Frequently Asked Questions

Questions from Formulators and Buyers

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