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Moumoujus

C4-18 PERFLUOROALKYLETHYL THIOHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE.

Questionable CAS 70983-60-7 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

A sophisticated cationic fluorosurfactant designed to modify surface tension and provide a high-performance protective shield. It excels in enhancing the distribution of UV filters and active ingredients while offering significant antimicrobial and thermal protection.

Summary

SPF Booster Antimicrobial Booster Film-former Conditioning Agent Heat Protectant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates via a dual-action molecular structure. The positively charged quaternary ammonium (trimonium) head group anchors electrostatically to the skin and hair's negatively charged keratin, providing conditioning and disrupting microbial membranes. Simultaneously, the perfluoroalkyl chain creates a microscopic hydrophobic and oleophobic film that lowers surface tension, ensuring ultra-uniform product spreadability and environmental resistance.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Concentrations of 0.5%-2.0% demonstrate significant SPF boosting by optimizing the film-forming characteristics and spatial distribution of UV filters on the stratum corneum.
  2. 02 Usage levels between 1.0%-5.0% provide potent antimicrobial synergy, specifically targeting gram-negative bacteria and fungi, allowing for a reduction in traditional preservative loads.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

Because it is a high-cost specialty surfactant, it is often included at negligible levels (below 0.1%) to claim 'SPF boosting' or 'antimicrobial' benefits without actually reaching the concentration required to modify film-forming properties.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Extremely thermally stable up to 100°C+, making it ideal for formulations involving heat. It is compatible with non-ionic and cationic systems.

Synergies

  • UV Filters
  • Cationic conditioning agents
  • Non-ionic emulsifiers

Conflicts

  • Anionic surfactants (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate)
  • Anionic thickeners (e.g., Carbomer)
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

While considered non-irritating for topical use, it is classified as a PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance), which is currently under scrutiny for environmental persistence and bioaccumulation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

Technically superior for enhancing SPF and product spreadability, but its status as a persistent PFAS makes it an environmentally controversial choice for modern clean formulations.

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