Benzalkonium Bromide
A cosmetic ingredient used as antimicrobial, antistatic, deodorant in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Benzalkonium Bromide is the mixture of alkylbenzyldimethylammonium bromides that conforms generally to the formula:
What does it do?
Benzalkonium Bromide is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
-
Antimicrobial
kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms
-
Antistatic
reduces static electricity, mostly in hair products to keep strands smooth and manageable
-
Deodorant
reduces or masks unpleasant body odour
-
Preservative
prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users
-
Surfactant - cleansing
surfactant whose primary cosmetic role is cleansing — the active workhorse in soaps, shampoos, and body washes
EU regulatory status
Benzalkonium Bromide is listed in Annex V of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.
Frequently asked questions
What is Benzalkonium Bromide?
Benzalkonium Bromide is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Benzalkonium Bromide is the mixture of alkylbenzyldimethylammonium bromides that conforms generally to the formula:
Is Benzalkonium Bromide allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Benzalkonium Bromide is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Benzalkonium Bromide do in cosmetic products?
Benzalkonium Bromide is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, antistatic, deodorant, preservative, surfactant - cleansing.
What is the CAS number of Benzalkonium Bromide?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Benzalkonium Bromide is 91080-29-4.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 06/08/2020