Benzalkonium bromide
Benzalkonium bromide
Benzalkonium bromide is a synthetic compound belonging to the quaternary ammonium family. It fulfills several roles in cosmetic formulations: surfactant, preservative, antistatic agent, and masking agent. It is found in particular in hair care products.
Hair conditioningSurfactantRestricted use
Ingredient
Roles & functions
Hair conditioning — Improves the appearance, softness and manageability of the hair.
Surfactant — Lowers the tension between two surfaces; cleanses and helps remove impurities.
Preservative — Limits the growth of micro-organisms to preserve the product.
Antistatic — Reduces static electricity, particularly on the hair.
Masking — Reduces or masks an unwanted odour.
Regulatory framework
What the authorities say
| Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| Commission européenne (CosIng, Règl. 1223/2009) | Autorisé sous conditions |
| CLP classification (Reg. 1272/2008) | No CMR classification |
| ECHA — endocrine disruptor (human health) | Not identified as an endocrine disruptor |
| ECHA — Candidate List (SVHC, REACH Art. 59) | Not on the Candidate List (SVHC) |
| European Commission (Reg. 1223/2009, Annex III) | No cosmetic allergen subject to mandatory labelling |
| European Commission (EU catalogue of nanomaterials, Reg. 1223/2009) | No referenced nanoform |
| European Commission — Annex III (Reg. 1223/2009) — maj Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:37:23 GMT | Permitted subject to restrictions (Annex III) — max 3% (as benzalkonium chloride) in Rinse-off hair (head) products — Avoid contact with the eyes — In the final products the concentrations of benzalkonium chloride, bromide and saccharinate with an alkyl chain of C14, or less must not exceed 0.1% (as benzalkonium chloride) For purposes other than inhibiting the development of micro-organismes in the product. This purpose has to be apparent from the presentation of the product |
| European Commission — Annex V (Reg. 1223/2009) — maj Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:37:23 GMT | Authorised preservative (Annex V) — max 0.1% (as benzalkonium chloride) — Avoid contact with eyes |
🔒
This information is reported factually and with attribution (authorities and publications cited). It does not constitute medical advice, for your situation, ask a pharmacist or a healthcare professional for advice.
A question about this ingredient?
Lou answers you and looks at your products with you, in store.