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Moumoujus

STEARTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE.

Valuable CAS 112-03-8 / ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, PRESERVATIVE

Steartrimonium Chloride is a versatile cationic surfactant extensively used in skincare and haircare, recognized for its conditioning, antistatic, and antimicrobial properties. Its positively charged structure allows it to effectively bind to the negatively charged proteins on skin and hair, enhancing texture and feel. This ingredient also functions as an emulsifier and a product preservative.

Summary

preservative antistatic hair conditioning emulsifier cationic surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

Operating as a cationic surfactant, Steartrimonium Chloride carries a positive charge that enables it to form a bond with the negatively charged surface proteins of both skin and hair. On the skin, this interaction helps to alleviate dryness and enhance comfort through its conditioning effects. Its inherent antimicrobial characteristics contribute to preserving cosmetic formulations, while its ability to lower surface tension facilitates the stable formation of emulsions.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Steartrimonium Chloride demonstrates solubility in both water and ethanol. Scientific literature does not consistently report a specific optimal pH range for its stability.

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.25%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Steartrimonium Chloride is safe for rinse-off products and for leave-on products at concentrations up to 0.25%. When primarily used as a preservative, its maximum concentration is limited to 0.1%. For leave-on facial creams, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) advises that the combined concentration of steartrimonium chloride and cetrimonium chloride should not exceed 0.5%. While pure or high concentrations of quaternary ammonium compounds can be irritating to skin and eyes, at authorized low concentrations in cosmetic products, they are generally considered not or only minimally irritating. However, individuals sensitive to ammonium compounds may still experience allergic reactions or skin irritation. Dermal exposure to 2.5% Steartrimonium Chloride showed no evidence of developmental effects, suggesting a low risk during pregnancy. A 0.56% aqueous dilution caused transient mild irritation in rabbits.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Steartrimonium Chloride is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, providing conditioning, preserving, and emulsifying benefits, with a well-established safety profile when used within its regulatory concentration limits.

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