Allowed in EU · Annex V

Cetrimonium Chloride

A cosmetic ingredient used as antimicrobial, antistatic, preservative in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

1-Hexadecanaminium, N,N,N-trimethyl-, chloride

What does it do?

Cetrimonium Chloride 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

  • Preservative

    prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users

  • Surfactant - emulsifying

    surfactant that forms and stabilises emulsions of oil and water — without it, creams and lotions would separate

EU regulatory status

Cetrimonium 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 Cetrimonium Chloride?

Cetrimonium Chloride is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 1-Hexadecanaminium, N,N,N-trimethyl-, chloride

Is Cetrimonium Chloride allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Cetrimonium Chloride is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Cetrimonium Chloride do in cosmetic products?

Cetrimonium Chloride is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, antistatic, preservative, surfactant - emulsifying.

What is the CAS number of Cetrimonium Chloride?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Cetrimonium Chloride is 112-02-7.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 10/08/2020