Is behentrimonium chloride in shampoo safe?

Is the shampoo safe?

Take a look at all the ingredients in the hair conditioner or treatment you're using now. Does it contain an ingredient called "behentrimonium chloride"?

Behentrimonium chloride is an ingredient extracted from the same rapeseed as canola oil. Because it is not derived from animals, it is also used in vegan hair care products. It is also used as a "natural ingredient."

It prevents frizz and dryness in your hair, leaving it soft and manageable.
It is found in many shampoos and treatments, but some people may not know what substance behentrimonium chloride is.

There are many things we don't know, such as whether it is harmful to the human body or whether it is a good ingredient for hair.

This article examines the role, function, and safety of behentrimonium chloride based on evidence from around the world.

What is Behentrimonium Chloride?

Behentrimonium chloride is classified as a quaternary ammonium salt. It has antibacterial properties and prevents the growth of bacteria. Therefore, it also functions as a preservative . However, it is generally used in hair care products for the following purposes:

Anti-static

When hair loses its smoothness, static electricity is generated. Behentrimonium chloride is very effective at preventing and removing static electricity. Therefore, it is used as an antistatic agent in many hair care products.

Conditioning Effects

Behentrimonium chloride softens, strengthens and smooths hair roots. It is often used as a conditioning agent as it is good for dry or curly hair.

Prevents hair tangles

Behentrimonium chloride makes hair soft and easy to manage, which is why it's often included in hair care products that help keep hair manageable.

Moisturizing effect

Although it doesn't directly moisturize your hair, it helps it retain moisture, which can make your hair feel less squeaky, especially after a bath or shower.

Safety of Behentrimonium Chloride

The European Chemicals Agency of the EU has clearly stated the following risks of behentrimonium chloride:

• Toxicity to aquatic organisms
• Eye irritation
• Skin irritation

However, in Japan, there are no restrictions on the use of behentrimonium chloride in general shampoos or hair care products (except for medicated products), so manufacturers are free to use it at any concentration.

On the other hand, in Europe, there is a rule that rinse-off hair care products such as shampoos and hair treatments cannot contain more than 5% of glycerin, and leave-in hair care products are limited to a maximum of 3%.

However, in most cases, behentrimonium chloride is considered safe when used at less than 5%. The US Cosmetic Ingredients Review Institute (CIR) has also found no problems with rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos. In leave-in products, behentrimonium chloride is considered safe at up to 0.25%.

When using shampoo containing behentrimonium chloride

If you get a little bit of shampoo in your mouth while showering, there's no need to worry. However, it's best to avoid using it on small children. Be careful not to let it get in your eyes as it can cause mild irritation.

When to Avoid Behentrimorium Chloride

Behentrimonium chloride is found in many hair care products. However, reviews of its safety are mixed, and some people may want to avoid it. If you're one of those people, why not try these natural options for your hair care routine?

Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil has waxy properties that create a thin protective film around your hair strands, trapping moisture and helping to keep hair moisturized and healthy.

We recommend using it as a treatment or hair mask. It has a similar structure to the sebum that is naturally secreted by the skin, so it blends in well with the skin. It also prevents the scalp from drying out.

Argan Oil

Argan oil softens and adds shine to hair. Used as a leave-in treatment, it reduces frizz and leaves hair smooth and shiny. It's high in antioxidant Vitamin E, which when applied to the scalp promotes strong hair growth.