Hexamidine diisethionate

Hexamidine diisethionate (CAS 659-40-5), also sold as hexamidine isethionate, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial active used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. It targets bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, making it a reliable preservative and biocide.

In topical products where microbial control is a formulation requirement, this compound provides consistent efficacy. In cosmetics, it functions as a preservative in rinse-off and leave-on products including shampoos and facial cleansers.

It is frequently utilized as a paraben-free alternative in moisturizers and other personal care items. Topical pharmaceutical preparations, such as antiseptic creams and eye drops, use it as the primary antimicrobial active at low effective concentrations.

The material also appears in contact lens care solutions, where its activity against Acanthamoeba addresses a specific microbial risk. This risk is often not covered by many standard preservatives used in ophthalmic applications.

Wound care and skin antiseptic formulations incorporate it where a water-soluble, low-irritation biocide is preferred. The chemical is supplied as a white to off-white powder suitable for various industrial and medical manufacturing processes.

It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with the latter subject to purity requirements aligned with pharmacopoeial standards such as Ph.Eur., BP, and EP.

Packaging is typically offered in kilogram quantities for development-scale procurement and larger bulk formats for commercial production. Our supply chain ensures consistent quality and documentation for all industrial chemical requirements.