Behentrimonium Methosulfate at a Glance
- Skin-friendly emulsifier and surfactant
- May also be used to enhance delivery of actives
- Popular in hair care formulations where it serves as a conditioner/anti-static agent
- Chemistry-wise, it’s a quaternary ammonium salt
Behentrimonium Methosulfate Description
Behentrimonium methosulfate plays a variety of roles in cosmetic formulations including as an emulsifier and surfactant. It is noted in research as being “skin friendly” because it does not impair intercellular lipids. It is especially popular in hair care formulations geared for curly textures where it serves as a conditioning agent to keep hair static-free, moisturized, and less prone to frizzing.
Behentrimonium methosulfate is also noted for its ability to enhance the delivery of actives to skin.
Behentrimonium methosulfate is categorized as quaternary ammonium salt (water-soluble positively charged ions). As a raw material, it takes the form of pale-yellow pellets. This ingredient is noted for compatible stability over a wide pH range.
In 2012, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed behentrimonium methosulfate safe as used in personal care products. Their report looked at products containing up to 10% concentration, though typically usage levels are much lower (around 0.5%-2%).
Behentrimonium Methosulfate References
SpecialChem (supplier info), Accessed November 2022, ePublication
Cutis, April 2020, pages 183-188
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology , January 2018, pages 140-144
Journal of Allergy & Therapy, 2014, pages 1-8
Therapeutics for the Clinician, January 2008, pages 87-91
International Journal of Toxicology, 2012, pages 296S-341S