
THE STORY OF BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE
Behentrimonium Chloride: The Silky-Feel Conditioning Agent
Behentrimonium Chloride is a highly effective conditioning and detangling agent used in rinse-off and leave-on haircare products. Known for its rich, smooth after-feel and low irritation profile, it provides exceptional conditioning performance — especially for dry, damaged, curly, or chemically treated hair.
Plant-Derived, Quaternized for Performance Conditioning
Produced from behenic acid (typically sourced from rapeseed/canola oil) and reacted to form a quaternary ammonium compound, Behentrimonium Chloride is vegetable-derived, cationic, and fully biodegradable. TRCkem supplies cosmetic-grade BTMC with high assay, low odor, and optimized flake stability.
Detangle. Smooth. Strengthen.
Behentrimonium Chloride delivers multiple haircare benefits:
✅ Strong detangling & comb-through slip
✅ Reduces frizz, static & breakage
✅ Leaves hair soft, conditioned & manageable
✅ Helps repair cuticle damage from heat & color
✅ Compatible with fatty alcohols for cream-conditioner bases
Widely used in: deep conditioners, rinse-off masks, hair serums, leave-in creams, 2-in-1 shampoos, and scalp-safe treatments.
Salon-Grade Conditioning with Global Approval
Typical inclusion rate:
• 0.5–2% in leave-on
• 1–5% in rinse-off conditioners & masks
Forms stable emulsions with Cetyl / Cetearyl Alcohol.
Safe, non-sensitizing, compliant with EU, US, ASEAN & IECIC regulations.
Must be added in oil phase during heating (60–75°C).
Ideal for sulfate-free, silicone-free & natural-derived conditioning systems.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Behentrimonium Chloride?
Behentrimonium Chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound used as a conditioning agent in hair care products. It is known for its excellent detangling, softening, and anti-static properties, making it a popular ingredient in conditioners and hair treatments.
2. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Behentrimonium Chloride?
CAS Number: 17301-53-0
INCI Name: Behentrimonium Chloride
3. What are the benefits of Behentrimonium Chloride in hair care?
Behentrimonium Chloride is known for:
Superior conditioning: Leaves hair soft, smooth, and manageable.
Detangling effect: Reduces hair breakage and improves combability.
Anti-static properties: Minimizes frizz and flyaways.
Lightweight feel: Does not weigh hair down, making it suitable for all hair types.
4. How does Behentrimonium Chloride work in hair care products?
Behentrimonium Chloride is a cationic surfactant, meaning it carries a positive charge that binds to the negatively charged hair cuticles. This smooths the hair shaft, reduces frizz, and enhances moisture retention.
5. Is Behentrimonium Chloride suitable for all hair types?
Yes, Behentrimonium Chloride works well for all hair types, including:
Curly & Coily Hair: Enhances definition and reduces frizz.
Straight & Wavy Hair: Provides lightweight conditioning without build-up.
Damaged & Dry Hair: Helps repair and strengthen weakened strands.
6. What types of personal care products contain Behentrimonium Chloride?
Behentrimonium Chloride is found in:
Hair conditioners
Leave-in treatments
Hair masks
Detangling sprays
7. Can Behentrimonium Chloride be used in skin care products?
While primarily used in hair care, Behentrimonium Chloride can also be found in some lotions and creams as an emulsifier to improve texture and spreadability.
8. Does Behentrimonium Chloride cause any side effects?
Behentrimonium Chloride is generally safe, but high concentrations may cause:
Mild scalp irritation (if left on for too long).
Eye irritation (if the product comes in contact with the eyes).
9. What is the recommended concentration of Behentrimonium Chloride in hair care products?
Up to 5% in rinse-off products (e.g., conditioners, hair masks).
Up to 2% in leave-on products (e.g., detanglers, leave-in conditioners).
10. Is Behentrimonium Chloride environmentally friendly?
Behentrimonium Chloride is biodegradable, but as a cationic surfactant, it may have some aquatic toxicity. Choosing formulations with lower concentrations can help minimize environmental impact.
11. Where can I purchase high-quality Behentrimonium Chloride for formulation purposes?
Behentrimonium Chloride is available from cosmetic raw material suppliers. Look for high-purity and cosmetic-grade versions for the best performance in formulations.