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OLEALKONIUM CHLORIDE.

Insufficient Data CAS 37139-99-4 / HAIR CONDITIONING

Olealkonium Chloride is a quaternary ammonium salt primarily recognized for its conditioning properties in hair care formulations. While observed in some body lotions, its specific benefits and mechanism for skin are not extensively documented in available research.

Summary

hair conditioning

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a cationic compound, Olealkonium Chloride functions by neutralizing negative charges on the hair surface, which can lead to reduced static, a smoother hair cuticle, and improved manageability, softness, shine, or volume. Its precise mechanism of action or targeted benefits when applied to skin remain largely unclarified.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

Given its primary function in hair conditioning, lack of defined skin benefits, and a maximum permitted concentration of 0.1% for safety, its inclusion in skincare products without a clear skin-specific mechanism or benefit, especially above this threshold, suggests it may not contribute to targeted skin results.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Aqueous solutions of related compounds are generally neutral to slightly alkaline. Highly concentrated solutions may necessitate rheology modifiers like alcohols or polyethylene glycols to prevent increases in viscosity or gel formation at lower temperatures.

Conflicts

  • Anionic detergents
  • Some inorganic salts
  • Strong oxidizing or reducing agents
  • Anionic drugs, leading to insoluble complex formation and precipitation

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.1%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel is currently re-evaluating the safety of 'Alkonium Chlorides and Bromides,' a broader family including Olealkonium Chloride. While related compounds like Stearalkonium Chloride are 'safe as used' and Benzalkonium Chloride is 'safe up to 0.1% free active ingredient,' EWG expresses 'moderate' concern for allergies & immunotoxicity and 'low' concern for neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and use restrictions for Olealkonium Chloride. Environment Canada lists it as a 'possible human toxicant.' An SCCNFP opinion on Benzethonium Chloride, another related compound, observed very slight irritation at 0.1% and significant irritation at 5%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Insufficient Data

Due to its primary role in hair conditioning, lack of defined skincare mechanisms, and safety restrictions, its utility for precision skincare formulations remains largely unsubstantiated.

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