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Moumoujus

DEQUALINIUM CHLORIDE.

Avoid CAS 522-51-0 / ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTIPLAQUE, DEODORANT, ORAL CARE

Dequalinium Chloride is a bis-quaternary ammonium compound renowned for its broad-spectrum anti-infective properties against bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. Its primary action involves disrupting microbial cell membranes, leading to cellular lysis. While studied for medicinal applications, its utility in cosmetic skincare requires careful consideration due to significant safety concerns.

Summary

Antimicrobial Antibacterial Antifungal Deodorant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This cationic amphiphilic agent functions by electrostatically binding its positively charged head groups to the negatively charged phospholipids within microbial cell membranes. This interaction destabilizes the membrane, increasing permeability and causing the leakage of vital intracellular components, culminating in cell death. Additionally, it denatures critical proteins involved in microbial respiration and glycolysis, thus inhibiting ATP synthesis and metabolic pathways essential for pathogen survival.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Effective in 0.25 mg concentrations for oral infections in throat lozenges.
  2. 02 Used at 0.5% in mouthwash and buccal sprays for oral microbial control.
  3. 03 Successfully employed in 10 mg vaginal tablets to treat bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis.
  4. 04 Patented for toothpaste formulations at 0.05-1% concentrations.
  5. 05 Applied topically in creams/ointments for skin infections and wound dressings, though specific concentrations are often unspecified in this context.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Dequalinium chloride is not commonly used in cosmetic skincare formulations due to its classification as a hazardous substance with significant potential for skin irritation and sensitization. Its primary applications are medicinal, targeting specific infections rather than general skincare concerns.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Stable for 2 years when supplied dry. Aqueous solutions or solutions in DMSO maintain stability at -20°C for up to 3 months. The compound is hygroscopic, and its therapeutic application is constrained by poor solubility, rapid degradation, and a short half-life, prompting research into nanogel-based delivery systems for enhanced stability and controlled release.

Conflicts

  • Soaps and other anionic surfactants (may diminish antimicrobial activity)
  • Oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk High

Dequalinium chloride is identified as a hazardous substance, capable of causing skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and potential respiratory irritation (H335). There is a significant risk of sensitization via skin contact, leading to inflammation and potentially exacerbating pre-existing dermatitis conditions. It should not be applied to open cuts, abraded, or irritated skin, as it may induce skin ulceration. While INCIDecoder suggests no irritancy, other safety data strongly indicate a high potential for irritation and sensitization with repeated or long-term exposure.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy, the classification as a hazardous substance with high risks of skin irritation and sensitization makes Dequalinium Chloride unsuitable for cosmetic skincare formulations within the Moumoujus brand.

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