Cellulose Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride — INCI reference

What it is

Cellulose Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a water-soluble cationic polymer produced by reacting cellulose (typically from cotton or wood pulp) with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride. The resulting quaternary ammonium groups give the polymer a positive charge, enabling it to adsorb to the negatively charged surfaces of hair and skin. In rinse-off products such as shampoos and body washes, it deposits a thin conditioning film that reduces friction, improves wet and dry combability, and controls flyaways. In leave-on formulations it contributes to a smooth, non-greasy feel. It is compatible with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants and functions across a broad pH range. Typical use concentrations range from 0.1% to 0.5%.

Safety & warnings

Generally considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations (0.1–0.5%). Compliant with TSCA, EINECS, and multiple international chemical inventories. Certified allergen-free, GMO-free, and non-toxic by major suppliers. No California Proposition 65 listing. As a quaternary ammonium compound, it may contribute to irritation at high concentrations in individuals with very sensitive skin, though this is uncommon at standard use levels. No known comedogenic risk.

Origin & sourcing

Derived from natural cellulose sourced from cotton linters or wood pulp. The cellulose substrate is first converted to hydroxyethylcellulose or used directly, then etherified with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride (CHPTMAC) under alkaline conditions to introduce cationic quaternary ammonium groups onto the polysaccharide backbone.

History

Cationic cellulose polymers for personal care were pioneered in the 1970s, with products like UCARE JR polymers (Amerchol/Dow) becoming industry standards for conditioning shampoos. The INCI name Cellulose Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride reflects the specific hydroxypropyl quaternary ammonium modification of the cellulose backbone, distinguishing it from the broader Polyquaternium-10 designation used for hydroxyethylcellulose-based variants.

Questions everyone asks

What does Cellulose Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride do in shampoo?

It deposits a thin cationic film on hair strands during rinsing, reducing friction and static electricity. This results in easier detangling, smoother feel, and better manageability after washing.

Is Cellulose Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride natural or synthetic?

It is a semi-synthetic ingredient. The cellulose backbone comes from natural plant sources (cotton or wood), but it is chemically modified with quaternary ammonium groups to give it conditioning properties.

Can it cause build-up on hair?

At typical use concentrations (0.1–0.5%), build-up is minimal. Higher molecular weight grades may accumulate with repeated use, but lighter grades are formulated to rinse cleanly without weighing hair down.

Is it related to Polyquaternium-10?

Yes. Polyquaternium-10 is the INCI name for cationic hydroxyethylcellulose derivatives, a closely related class. Cellulose Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride uses a hydroxypropyl quaternary ammonium modification on a cellulose backbone and shares similar conditioning and antistatic functions.