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QUATERNIUM-18/BENZALKONIUM BENTONITE.

Valuable / VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Quaternium-18/Benzalkonium Bentonite is a multifunctional composite ingredient, blending a positively charged quaternary ammonium compound with absorbent bentonite clay and antiseptic benzalkonium chloride. It primarily functions as a conditioning agent and emulsifier, enhancing product texture and stability while offering beneficial skin properties.

Summary

conditioning agent texture enhancer emulsifier antistatic agent absorbent emollient viscosity controlling antiseptic (from Benzalkonium Chloride component) skin adherence water resistance UV light resistance

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound operates through several mechanisms. The Quaternium-18 component, a quaternary ammonium derivative, possesses a positive charge that allows it to electrostatically bind to the negatively charged surfaces of skin and hair, providing conditioning effects. Bentonite clay contributes significant absorbent properties, which can help manage excess oil. Furthermore, the ingredient acts as an effective emulsifier, stabilizing oil-in-water formulations and preventing product separation. Benzalkonium chloride imparts mild antiseptic qualities, while the overall structure enhances skin adherence, and can contribute to water and UV resistance in specific formulations like sunscreens.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A skin moisturizing cream formulated with Quaternium-18-Bentonite was shown to effectively improve chronic hand dermatitis.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel determined that the particle size of Quaternium-18 Bentonite is too large to be respirable, mitigating concerns regarding inhalation exposure.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient exhibits robust stability across a broad pH range and maintains integrity under typical cosmetic processing and storage conditions, including heat.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
2.5%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has consistently reaffirmed Quaternium-18 Bentonite as safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 2.5% in leave-on products (as of 2018). Extensive safety assessments, including irritation and sensitization tests (e.g., at 4.1% in eyebrow preparations and 0.1% in guinea pigs, showing no sensitization), support its profile. Bentonite is FDA-listed as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), and the Benzalkonium Chloride component is considered safe up to 0.1%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Quaternium-18/Benzalkonium Bentonite is a valuable ingredient due to its versatility in enhancing product texture and stability, providing conditioning benefits, and demonstrating a low risk for irritation and sensitization across various skin types.

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