Behentrimonium methosulfate

Behentrimonium methosulfate (CAS 81646-13-1), also known as docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate, is a quaternary ammonium compound used primarily in rinse-off and leave-in hair care formulations.

It functions as a cationic emulsifier and conditioning agent, enabling stable emulsion formation while imparting detangling and softening effects to hair fiber. In hair conditioners and conditioning masks, it emulsifies fatty alcohols.

It works with cetyl and stearyl alcohol to form the cream base while simultaneously depositing conditioning actives onto the hair shaft. Leave-in treatments and detangling sprays rely on its cationic charge to bind to damaged hair.

By binding to negatively charged hair, it reduces friction and improves combability. It is a preferred emulsifier in sulfate-free and mild formulation systems, where compatibility with sensitive scalp claims is a requirement.

Curl creams and styling butters use it to achieve stable, rich textures with controlled rheology without relying on conventional surfactant systems. This versatility makes it a staple in modern hair care manufacturing.

Behentrimonium methosulfate is commercially supplied as a white to off-white waxy paste or solid, typically blended with cetyl alcohol for easier processing and handling. It is available in cosmetic-grade specification.

This material is suitable for leave-on and rinse-off personal care applications. Standard market concentrations in pre-blended forms are commonly 25% active in cetyl alcohol for industrial use.