PLDEFRESITJęzyk: polski
INCI name

BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE

Benzethonium chloride

AntimicrobialDeodorantPreservativeSurfactant – dispersingreviewed

A quaternary ammonium compound used as a preservative, regulated in Annex V.

What it is

Benzethonium chloride is a cationic quaternary ammonium salt with a benzyl group and an octylphenoxy-ethoxy-ethyl chain. CosIng lists it as an antimicrobial, deodorant, preservative and dispersing surfactant. In the EU it is listed in Annex V (allowed preservatives); according to that entry it may be used in rinse-off products and in leave-on products other than oral products.

Where it is used

Found in deodorants, hand cleansers, wet wipes and some skin care products.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

See the EU regulation section for the applicable limits. The label does not show the concentration actually used.

Functions

Antimicrobial
Preventing and/or slowing down microbial growth.
Deodorant
Reducing and/or eluminating unpleasant odour. Contributing against the formation of malodour on body surfaces.
Preservative
Exclusively or mainly intended to inhibit the development of micro-organisms in the cosmetic product. All authorised preservatives are substances in the positive list of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
Surfactant – dispersing
Helping distribute an insoluble solid in a liquid phase.

EU regulation

EU · Annex V, entry 53Benzenemethanaminium, N,N-dimethyl-N-[2-[2-[4-(1,1,3,3,-tetramethylbutyl)phenoxy]ethoxy]ethyl]-, chloride
Product type
a) Rinse-off products b) Leave-on products other than oral products
Maximum concentration
0.1%
As of
3 November 2026 · (EC) 2009/1223

Products with this ingredient (13)

Check a full ingredient list