
THE STORY OF AMMONIUM THIOGLYCOLATE
Ammonium Thioglycolate: The Precision Bond-Breaking Agent
Ammonium Thioglycolate is a key active ingredient used in professional hair reshaping systems, including permanent waving, straightening, and relaxing creams. It works by breaking disulfide bonds within hair keratin, allowing irreversible restructuring of curl pattern, texture, and shape.
High-Purity Synthesis for Controlled Reactivity
Produced by neutralizing thioglycolic acid with ammonium hydroxide, Ammonium Thioglycolate is supplied as a stabilized, cosmetic-grade aqueous solution. Each batch is filtered, pH-adjusted, and quality-tested to ensure predictable bond-breaking strength, low odor, and long-term storage stability.
Reshape. Reform. Redefine
Primary functions of Ammonium Thioglycolate in cosmetics:
✅ Breaks disulfide (–S–S–) bonds in keratin
âś… Enables permanent waving, curling, or straightening
✅ Works efficiently under alkaline pH (8–10)
âś… Compatible with creams, gels, and lotion formats
âś… Allows controlled processing time for salon professionals
Used in: perm lotions, Brazilian straightening systems, texture-softening formulas, and chemical hair relaxing.
Powerful Chemistry. Strict Handling. Professional Use Only
Typical use level: 5–15% active in hair perming systems.
Must be handled with gloves and eye protection.
Store in airtight containers away from heat, metal ions, and oxidizers.
Requires secondary neutralizer in final formulation (commonly hydrogen peroxide or sodium bromate).
Complies with global cosmetic regulatory limits when used in professional-only formulations.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Ammonium Thioglycolate used for in cosmetics?
Ammonium Thioglycolate** is a key active ingredient used in hair perming (permanent wave systems) and chemical hair relaxers. It breaks disulfide bonds in hair keratin, allowing hair to be reshaped into curls or straightened, depending on the application.
2. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Ammonium Thioglycolate?
CAS Number: 5421-46-5
INCI Name: Ammonium Thioglycolate
3. Is Ammonium Thioglycolate safe for use in personal care products?
Yes, when used at controlled concentrations and pH levels, it is considered safe and effective for use in professional hair treatments. It must be used according to cosmetic regulatory guidelines, and neutralizers are typically applied afterward to rebalance pH and prevent damage.
4. Is Ammonium Thioglycolate natural or synthetic?
Ammonium Thioglycolate is a synthetic chemical compound made by neutralizing thioglycolic acid with ammonium hydroxide. It is not derived from natural sources.
5. Can Ammonium Thioglycolate cause skin or eye irritation?
Yes, in its concentrated form, it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used during handling, and it should only be applied by trained professionals in controlled settings.
6. Is Ammonium Thioglycolate vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. It contains no animal-derived ingredients and is considered vegan. It can be cruelty-free depending on the supplier’s policies and certifications regarding animal testing.
7. What kind of products typically contain Ammonium Thioglycolate?
You can find Ammonium Thioglycolate in:
Hair perming systems
Chemical hair relaxers
Keratin softening treatments
Some depilatory (hair removal) creams
8. How should Ammonium Thioglycolate be stored?
It should be stored in tightly closed containers, in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from heat and oxidizing agents. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or air, as the ingredient can degrade when oxidized.
9. What precautions should be taken when using Ammonium Thioglycolate in formulations?
Use in well-ventilated areas
Avoid mixing with strong acids or oxidizers
Apply a neutralizer post-treatment to stop the chemical action
Follow local cosmetic safety regulations for concentration limits
10. Is Ammonium Thioglycolate listed under California Proposition 65?
No, Ammonium Thioglycolate is not currently listed under California Proposition 65 for carcinogenicity or reproductive toxicity when used within regulatory limits.