Home / Encyclopedia / Cetrimonium Chloride
Surfactant

Cetrimonium Chloride

Cationic hair conditioner — cetrimonium chloride neutralizes the negative charge of the hair shaft, eliminating porosity and static. One of the most common actives in conditioners, masks, and leave-in hair products.

hair conditionercationicantistaticsmoothing
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC) — quaternary ammonium compound (quaternary ammonium, quat) with a C16 alkyl chain. In INCI: Cetrimonium Chloride. Cationic (positively charged) — adsorbs to the negatively charged surface of the hair shaft and skin. A softer and safer alternative to long-chain DMDM quats.

The main conditioning agent in hair conditioners, masks, leave-in products, and anti-frizz creams. Reduces friction between hair strands, smooths the cuticle scales, and eliminates static electricity.

Key Benefits

✦
Smoothing the cuticle and conditioning
The positive charge of CTAC attracts to the negatively charged damaged hair cuticle — fills in imperfections, smooths the shaft, and significantly reduces friction when combing. Especially effective on damaged and colored hair.
◈
Antistatic effect
Neutralizes accumulated negative charge on hair — eliminates frizz and static. A key component in winter anti-frizz products.
✧
Antimicrobial activity
As a quaternary ammonium, it has broad antimicrobial activity — effective against bacteria and fungi. Additionally protects the scalp and extends the shelf life of the formula.

Suitable for

dry hairdamaged haircolored hairall hair types

Main Actions

✓ conditioning✓ smoothing the cuticle✓ antistatic✓ antimicrobial protection
Quaternary ammoniums and buildup

With prolonged use, quaternary ammoniums can accumulate on hair and complicate its hydration — the "waxy buildup" effect. Use a clarifying shampoo every 2–4 weeks to cleanse from buildup.

CategorySurfactants

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cetrimonium Chloride do for skin?
The main conditioning agent in hair conditioners, masks, leave-in products, and anti-frizz creams. Reduces friction between hair strands, smooths the cuticle scales, and eliminates static electricity.
Who should use Cetrimonium Chloride?
Cetrimonium Chloride is suitable for: dry hair, damaged hair, colored hair, all hair types.
Are there any warnings about Cetrimonium Chloride?
With prolonged use, quaternary ammoniums can accumulate on hair and complicate its hydration — the "waxy buildup" effect. Use a clarifying shampoo every 2–4 weeks to cleanse from buildup.

Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.

Analyze your product