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Moumoujus

QUATERNIUM-73.

Valuable CAS 15763-48-1 / ANTISTATIC

QUATERNIUM-73 is a highly potent quaternary ammonium compound recognized for its multifaceted benefits in skincare, primarily its powerful antimicrobial action against acne-causing bacteria and its significant ability to inhibit melanin production. It also functions as a valuable preservative and anti-inflammatory agent.

Summary

Antimicrobial Melanin Inhibitor Anti-inflammatory Preservative Antistatic

Science

Mechanism of Action

QUATERNIUM-73 acts as a potent antimicrobial by disrupting the cellular integrity of bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes, and various fungi, leading to cellular degeneration. Its melanin-inhibiting properties stem from the suppression of tyrosinase activity, which is crucial for pigment synthesis. Additionally, it contributes to skin calm by reducing the release of inflammatory mediators and imparts antistatic benefits in hair care formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.000003–0.002%
Optimal

0.002%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated a 99%+ kill rate of acne (P. Acnes) bacteria when formulated as MicroKill™ at 1%.
  2. 02 Achieved a 50% inhibition of melanin synthesis in vitro.
  3. 03 Further boosted melanin inhibition to 83% in vitro.
  4. 04 Identified as the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) for acne bacilli, correlating with a 50% reduction in acne rash observed within two weeks of use in clinical tests (using 0.001% in emulsion, 0.005% in cream).
  5. 05 Effective in killing a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi, leading to improvements in both acne and polyacne symptoms.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.000003%

QUATERNIUM-73 exhibits significant biological activity at extremely low concentrations, such as 0.000003% for melanin inhibition and 0.00002% for antimicrobial effects. Its efficacy at these minute percentages suggests that it is not typically 'dusted' merely for label claims, but rather included at truly effective, albeit low, concentrations.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 5.5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Stable within a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0 and tolerant of high heat up to 80-85°C for short durations. However, formulations containing QUATERNIUM-73 require protection from light, typically through the use of opaque packaging, due to its light instability.

Conflicts

  • Amino Acids (potential irritation)
  • Enzymes (potential irritation)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.002%
Sensitization risk Low

Generally considered safe for cosmetic use at its recommended extremely low concentrations (typically 0.0001% to 0.001%), with concentrations above 0.002% potentially causing mild irritation. Comprehensive testing, including human body patch tests (0.2%), rabbit skin irritation tests (0.2%, 0.01%), eye irritation (0.0007%), skin sensitization (0.2%), phototoxicity (0.2%), and photosensitization (0.2%) tests, yielded negative results. It also showed no induced gene mutations. EWG Skin Deep classifies it as 'Low' hazard across multiple toxicity categories. Data on topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is currently insufficient, and professional medical consultation is advised for these populations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

QUATERNIUM-73 is a valuable, multi-functional active for precision skincare, offering potent antimicrobial and melanin-inhibiting benefits at remarkably low concentrations with a favorable safety profile for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

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