INCI Name: Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (often supplied as Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride or other derivatives depending on the raw material)
Molecular Formula: Not a single fixed formula (polymeric quaternary ammonium compound)
CAS Number: Commonly supplied as Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride – 65497-29-2
Alternate Names:
Cationic Guar
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Conditioning Guar Polymer
Quaternized Guar Gum
Hair Conditioning Polymer
Benefits & Uses (Short):
Improves hair softness and smoothness
Reduces static and flyaway hair
Enhances wet and dry combability
Provides conditioning without excessive buildup
Improves feel of shampoos and conditioners
Used in shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, body washes, and styling products
How It Works (Short):
Functions as a cationic (positively charged) conditioning polymer that is attracted to the negatively charged surface of damaged hair
Deposits a thin conditioning film on hair fibers, improving softness and manageability
Helps reduce friction between hair strands, making combing easier
Controls static electricity and minimizes frizz formation
Improves foam feel and conditioning performance in shampoos
Can also enhance skin feel in body wash and cleansing formulations
Olfactory Notes:
Practically odorless
Very faint characteristic polymer odor
Neutral scent profile
Does not significantly affect fragrance systems
FAQs:
Q: What is Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride used for? A: It is mainly used as a conditioning agent in hair care products to improve softness, combability, and manageability.
Q: Is it suitable for shampoos? A: Yes, it is widely used in shampoos to provide conditioning benefits without weighing hair down.
Q: Does it reduce frizz? A: Yes, it helps control static electricity and reduces frizz and flyaways.
Q: What is the typical usage level? A: Generally 0.1%–1.0%, depending on the formulation and desired conditioning effect.
Q: Can it be used in sulfate-free shampoos? A: Yes, it is compatible with many sulfate-free and mild surfactant systems.
