Cetrimonium Chloride (CETAC 30%): Essential Conditioning Agent for Hair Care.
Cetrimonium Chloride, also known as CETAC 30%, is a versatile cationic quaternary ammonium compound widely utilized in personal care and cosmetic formulations. It is primarily recognized for its conditioning properties in hair care products, enhancing texture, reducing static, and promoting easier detangling. As a water-soluble surfactant, Cetrimonium Chloride improves both wet and dry combing, making it a must-have ingredient for hair conditioners, masks, and leave-in treatments.
Key Benefits
- Conditioning Agent: Helps improve hair manageability, smoothness, and overall texture.
- Anti-Static Properties: Reduces static cling, leaving hair looking sleek and smooth.
- Detangling Effect: Eases combing by reducing tangles and knots, especially beneficial in conditioners and leave-in sprays.
- Cationic Surfactant: Adheres effectively to the hair's natural negative charge, enhancing the performance of conditioning formulations.
- Preservative and Antiseptic Properties: Also functions as a preservative due to its ability to inhibit microbial growth, adding versatility in formulations.
Ingredients (Common Name): Cetac 30% - Cetrimonium Chloride
Ingredients (INCI Name): Cetrimonium Chloride
Composition: 29-30% active solution of cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride
CAS No: 0112-02-07
Appearance: Clear fluid, odor similar to alcohol
Solubility: Water soluble
Suggested Uses: Used as a conditioning agent for hair with anti-static, anti-frizz & detangling properties
Charge: Cationic (positively charged)
pH Range: 4.0 - 5.0
Suggested Uses
Cetrimonium Chloride is commonly found in various personal care products, including:
- Conditioners: Enhances moisture retention and softness.
- Shampoos: Improves texture and reduces frizz.
- Hair Masks: Provides deep conditioning benefits.
- Leave-On Products: Used in styling creams and serums for added manageability.
Formulation Guide
- Recommended Usage Levels:
- Rinse-Off Products (Conditioners, Hair Masks): 0.25% - 10%
- Leave-On Products (Styling Creams, Leave-In Conditioners): Up to 1%, not exceeding 0.25% active per Cosmetic Ingredient Review guidelines.
- Surfactant Systems: Suitable for use in surfactant systems due to water solubility.
- Application: Cetrimonium Chloride is ideal for use in hair conditioners, cream rinses, leave-in sprays, and detangling treatments. Its ability to reduce frizz, improve combing ease, and control static makes it a versatile ingredient in various personal care products.
Safety Information
Cetrimonium Chloride (CETAC 30%) is intended for external use only and should be used in accordance with recommended usage rates. Do not apply directly to the skin or hair without proper dilution in a formulation. Individuals who are pregnant or under medical supervision should consult a healthcare provider before use. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review suggests a maximum concentration of 0.25% active for leave-on products to avoid potential skin irritation. Always patch test new formulations.