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DIHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE.

Valuable CAS 34004-36-9 / HUMECTANT

DIHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE is a cationic polymer, typically recognized as Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, derived from guar gum. It functions as a versatile skin and hair conditioning agent, humectant, and texture enhancer in skincare formulations. This ingredient improves product feel, spreadability, and overall stability while contributing to skin hydration and smoothness.

Summary

Skin conditioning Hair conditioning Humectant Texture enhancer Viscosity controlling Film-forming Antistatic

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates by leveraging its positively charged trimethylammonium groups, which electrostatically bind to the inherently negatively charged surfaces of both hair and skin. On the skin, it acts as a humectant, drawing and retaining moisture to prevent epidermal water loss. It also forms a subtle protective film, which further aids in hydration and mitigates potential drying effects of surfactants. As a texture enhancer, it imparts a smooth, silky sensation, improves product viscosity, and enhances the slip and glide of creams, lotions, and gels for superior application.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–1%
Optimal

0.1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at concentrations as low as 0.05%.
  2. 02 Provides exceptional conditioning properties when used at recommended levels between 0.1% and 0.3%.
  3. 03 Typically used in formulations, with normal use levels ranging from 0.2% to 1% by weight.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
1%

While DIHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE is generally considered safe for cosmetic use, concentrations exceeding 1% have been identified as potentially causing irritation. Adhering to the recommended maximum concentration is crucial to ensure skin comfort and product safety.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

DIHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE demonstrates stability across a broad pH range, though it is not stable in strong acid or alkali environments. Optimal viscosity development may be observed more rapidly in slightly acidic conditions (e.g., pH 3.5-5.0) for certain grades. It exhibits excellent compatibility with most common anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants and is not sensitive to electrolytes. While some forms are self-hydrating in water, there is conflicting information regarding its suitability for completely clear or transparent formulations.

Synergies

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Cationic surfactants
  • Amphoteric surfactants
  • Electrolytes

Conflicts

  • Strong acids
  • Strong alkalis

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
1%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that DIHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE (and its common variants) is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at current usage concentrations, up to 1%. It is generally considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing, with only limited evidence of dermal irritation reported by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). However, concentrations above 1% can potentially cause irritation, necessitating a patch test for individuals with sensitive skin, particularly at higher inclusion levels. No carcinogenicity or toxicity has been associated with this ingredient, and it is biodegradable.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

DIHYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE is a valuable ingredient for enhancing skin hydration, improving product texture and spreadability, and providing conditioning benefits, safely utilized at concentrations up to 1%.

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