CETRIMONIUM METHOSULFATE (Cetrimonium methosulfate) – function in cosmetics

A quaternary ammonium salt used as an antistatic and hair-conditioning agent.

What it is

Cetrimonium methosulfate is hexadecyltrimethylammonium methyl sulfate, a cationic quaternary ammonium salt with a C16 alkyl chain. CosIng lists it as an antimicrobial, antistatic, hair-conditioning and emulsifying and cleansing surfactant ingredient.

Where it is used

Found mainly in hair conditioners, hair masks and leave-in hair 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.

The label does not show the amount used.

Functions

Antimicrobial

Preventing and/or slowing down microbial growth.

Antistatic

Preventing and/or reducing static electricity by neutralising electrical charge on surfaces.

Surfactant – emulsifying

Helping suspensions or dispersions of liquids in a second liquid by reducing the surface tension of the substances to be emulsified.

Hair conditioning

Enhancing the appearance and feel of hair. Leaving the hair easy to comb, supple, soft and shiny and/or imparting volume, lightness, gloss, texture, etc.

Surfactant – cleansing

Wetting body surfaces, emulsifying or solubilizing oils, and suspending soil (generally, such ingredients contribute to the foaming and lathering properties of cleansing products).

CETRIMONIUM METHOSULFATE

What it is

Where it is used

Limits of interpretation

Functions

EU regulation

Products with this ingredient (10)