Behentrimonium Methosulfate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Skin-friendly emulsifier and surfactant
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
What Is Behentrimonium Methosulfate?
Behentrimonium methosulfate plays a variety of roles in cosmetic formulations including as an emulsifier and surfactant. It is noted in research as being "skin friendly" because it does not impair intercellular lipids. It is especially popular in hair care formulations geared for curly textures where it serves as a conditioning agent to keep hair static-free, moisturized, and less prone to frizzing. Behentrimonium methosulfate is also noted for its ability to enhance the delivery of actives to skin.
Behentrimonium methosulfate is categorized as quaternary ammonium salt (water-soluble positively charged ions). As a raw material, it takes the form of pale-yellow pellets. This ingredient is noted for compatible stability over a wide pH range.
In 2012, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed behentrimonium methosulfate safe as used in personal care products. Their report looked at products containing up to 10% concentration, though typically usage levels are much lower (around 0.5%-2%).
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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SpecialChem (supplier info), Accessed November 2022, ePublication SpecialChem (supplier info), 2022
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Cutis, April 2020, pages 183-188 Cutis, 2020
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Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology , January 2018, pages 140-144 Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018
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Journal of Allergy & Therapy, 2014, pages 1-8 Journal of Allergy & Therapy, 2014
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Therapeutics for the Clinician, January 2008, pages 87-91 Therapeutics for the Clinician, 2008
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2012, pages 296S-341S International Journal of Toxicology, 2012
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- BEHENTRIMONIUM METHOSULFATE
- EC Number
- 279-791-1
- Function
- Antistatic, Hair Conditioning, Surfactant
From the Clinic
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