SkinAtlas
Ingredient library / Potassium Methoxysalicylate
Active ingredient

Potassium Methoxysalicylate

INCI: POTASSIUM METHOXYSALICYLATE

A potassium salt of 4-methoxysalicylic acid used as a regulated skin-whitening active in Japanese cosmetics (quasi-drug status). Inhibits melanogenesis and has mild exfoliating properties. Requires daily sun protection.

Also known as: potassium 4-methoxysalicylate, 4MSK

skin-lighteningantioxidantexfoliant

Benefits

  • ✓Brightens hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
  • ✓Approved quasi-drug skin-lightening active in Japan
  • ✓Less irritating than kojic acid or arbutin at equivalent efficacy

Watch for

  • ⚠Use with caution if sensitive to salicylates
  • ⚠Can increase photosensitivity — use SPF daily

Compatibility

✓ Works well with
+ Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate+ Tocopherol+ Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
At a glance
CategoryActive
IrritancyModerate–high
Beginner-friendlyYes
In your routine

Pairs well with Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and Tocopherol and others.

Found in 11 products
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Products with Potassium Methoxysalicylate

White Lucent Gel CreamMoisturizer
Shiseido
White Lucent Gel Cream
Spot Clear Serum WTSerum
Elixir
Spot Clear Serum WT
Brightening Moisture Milk WTEmulsion
Elixir
Brightening Moisture Milk WT
Brightening Moisture Emulsion WTEmulsion
Elixir
Brightening Moisture Emulsion WT
White Lucent Overnight Cream & MaskMoisturizer
Shiseido
White Lucent Overnight Cream & Mask
White Lucent Brightening Gel CreamMoisturizer
Shiseido
White Lucent Brightening Gel Cream