Steartrimonium chloride

Steartrimonium chloride, also called stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, is a C18 cationic surfactant used for hair conditioning and antistatic effects. The permanently charged ammonium group promotes adsorption to negatively charged hair surfaces, while the long alkyl chain contributes lubrication. These mechanisms support reduced combing friction and improved manageability in conditioning products.

Commercial concentrates are incorporated into compatible aqueous conditioning systems, often with fatty alcohols that provide emulsion structure and body. The active itself supplies the cationic conditioning contribution; the complete base establishes viscosity and cream texture. Its C18 single-chain structure differentiates it from shorter-chain quaternaries and double-chain fabric-softener actives. Compatibility follows its cationic character, particularly when anionic cleansing ingredients are also present.

Typical Applications

• Cream hair conditioners: Used as a conditioning active in rinse-off emulsions for improved combing and reduced static. Fatty alcohols and other structuring ingredients help form the cream vehicle.
• Hair masks and treatment emulsions: Used in richer conditioning products where slip and manageability are required. It works at the hair surface while oils and emollients contribute the additional treatment feel.
• Antistatic hair-care formulations: Used in compatible leave-on or finishing products designed to reduce static-related flyaway. The formulation distributes the cationic ingredient over the hair without relying on it as a styling fixative.

Specifications

Specifications describe the standard grade. Tolerance, test method and documentation package are confirmed per order.