Monoethanolamine thioglycolate

Monoethanolamine thioglycolate (CAS 126-97-6), also known as ethanolamine thioglycolate, is a salt formed from monoethanolamine and thioglycolic acid used primarily as a reducing agent in hair treatment formulations. It breaks disulfide bonds in keratin, enabling permanent restructuring of hair fiber. The compound is the active ingredient in professional and consumer permanent wave solutions, where it softens and reshapes the hair's internal protein structure.

Before neutralization fixes the new curl pattern, the chemical works to modify the protein bonds. Depilatory creams rely on it to degrade the disulfide linkages in hair at the skin surface, enabling chemical hair removal without mechanical abrasion. Straightening and relaxing formulations for coarse or curly hair use it as an alternative to lye-based systems. This is particularly common in formulations targeting sensitive scalp conditions where milder chemical agents are preferred for safety.

It also functions in hair bond-breaking pre-treatments used ahead of color or bleach services to reduce mechanical damage. Monoethanolamine thioglycolate is supplied as a liquid, typically as an aqueous solution for industrial use. Cosmetic-grade material is the standard commercial form, with specifications aligned to industry requirements for active content and pH range. Buyers should confirm concentration and purity certificates when sourcing for regulated personal care markets.