Benzalkonium Chloride
A cosmetic ingredient used as antimicrobial, antistatic, deodorant in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Benzalkonium Chloride is a mixture of alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chlorides that conforms generally to the formula:
What does it do?
Benzalkonium Chloride is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antimicrobial
kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms
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Antistatic
reduces static electricity, mostly in hair products to keep strands smooth and manageable
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Deodorant
reduces or masks unpleasant body odour
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Preservative
prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users
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Surfactant - dispersing
surfactant that helps disperse solid particles uniformly throughout a formulation
EU regulatory status
Benzalkonium Chloride 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 Chloride?
Benzalkonium Chloride is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Benzalkonium Chloride is a mixture of alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chlorides that conforms generally to the formula:
Is Benzalkonium Chloride allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Benzalkonium Chloride is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Benzalkonium Chloride do in cosmetic products?
Benzalkonium Chloride is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, antistatic, deodorant, preservative, surfactant - dispersing.
What is the CAS number of Benzalkonium Chloride?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Benzalkonium Chloride is 63449-41-2 / 68391-01-5 / 68424-85-1 / 85409-22-9.
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