Science
Mechanism of Action
As a cationic polymeric, quaternary trimethylammonium salt of starch, this ingredient deposits a fine film on the skin, contributing to a soft and supple feel. It acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin to enhance the product's overall moisturizing efficacy. Additionally, it functions as an antistatic agent and an emulsion stabilizer, improving formulation viscosity and shelf life.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence0.1%-0.4%
Key findings
- 01 In concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 0.4% in shower gels, Starch Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride significantly enhanced skin conditioning, delivered a long-term soft and supple skin feel, and improved foam stability. It also demonstrated humectant properties, increasing the product's moisturizing ability.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This ingredient integrates easily into clear formulations without requiring heating, pH adjustment, or neutralization. It exhibits compatibility with a wide array of surfactants and can be thickened effectively with salt. It accommodates diverse order-of-addition processes at temperatures below 40°C (104°F), with typical product pH observed around 5.2-5.4.
Synergies
- Various surfactants
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has indicated insufficient data for Starch Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, posing a limitation for its inclusion in EWG VERIFIED products without further robust substantiation. While general irritancy is noted as low, this data gap necessitates caution regarding comprehensive long-term safety.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While demonstrating valuable conditioning and moisturizing benefits across all skin types with low reported irritancy, a comprehensive safety profile is limited by the CIR's 'insufficient data' status, warranting careful consideration for precision formulations.
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