Behentrimonium Methosulfate

Good

Cleansing Agent

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

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.