Behentrimonium Chloride

Behentrimonium Chloride is a cationic quaternary ammonium surfactant used as a conditioning agent and mild emulsifier. Hair and skin products use it to improve detangling, reduce static, and boost slip, though sensitivity reactions can occur.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A conditioning agent that detangles hair and smooths skin feel.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Smooths the feel of hair and cuts down on flyaways, making it easier to comb. In creams, it leaves a velvety finish without heavy residue.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in rinse-out conditioners, hair masks, and leave-in creams, and also used in lotions and balms.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Safe at typical concentrations for most people. Irritation, stinging, or redness can occur, particularly with leave-on use or eye contact. Patch test if you're sensitive, and choose rinse-off formats if you notice reactivity.

Is Behentrimonium Chloride a Good Ingredient?

It works well for slip, detangling, and static control. But its cationic charge can irritate skin or eyes in some users, especially in leave-on products, and that risk is what holds the rating to Fair rather than Good.

Products with Behentrimonium Chloride

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