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CETRIMONIUM TOSYLATE.

Valuable CAS 138-32-9 / ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A sophisticated quaternary ammonium salt that serves as a multifunctional conditioning agent and antimicrobial stabilizer. In skincare, it creates a refined, powdery texture while providing targeted surface protection against microbial imbalance.

Antimicrobial Conditioning Agent Antistatic Surfactant Cleansing

Science

This cationic molecule utilizes a positive charge to bond with the naturally negative surface of keratin. On the skin, it forms a lightweight conditioning film; on a cellular level, it disrupts the membrane integrity of harmful microbes through electrostatic interaction, resulting in effective surface purification.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–1.5%
Optimal

0.25%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations demonstrate significant antimicrobial persistence when used in antiseptic moisturizing matrices, providing a unique soft-touch finish.
  2. 02 Safety assessments establish a 0.25% threshold for leave-on applications to maximize conditioning benefits without inducing skin sensitization.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
0.05%

Because it functions as an antimicrobial and texture modifier, it is effective at very low concentrations. However, formulas claiming 'antiseptic' or 'acne-cleansing' benefits should contain at least 0.1% to ensure efficacy.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains excellent stability in acidic environments. It can form wormlike micelles in solution, which naturally assists in the thickening and structural stability of emulsions.

Synergies

  • Non-ionic surfactants
  • Humectants
  • Cationic polymers

Conflicts

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Strong soaps
  • Nitrates
  • Heavy metals
  • Proteins

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
0.25%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Moderate

While safe at recommended levels, concentrations exceeding 0.25% in leave-on products may cause skin or eye irritation.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

An excellent dual-action ingredient for purifying and conditioning the skin surface, provided it is formulated within strict concentration limits to avoid irritation.


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