Benzalkonium Chloride in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Introduction:

Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC) are a group of quaternary ammonium compounds widely used in various industry applications for their antimicrobial properties. Benzalkonium Chloride also serves as a powerful preservative, extending the shelf life of various products. BAC is particularly effective at preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can cause products to spoil or become contaminated. This article explores Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC) uses, properties, sources, and applications across various personal care and cosmetic products.

What is Benzalkonium Chloride?

Benzalkonium chloride (BAC), also known as Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride (ADBAC) is an Organic salt classified as a Quaternary Ammonium Compound (QAC).

Use of Benzalkonium Chloride in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products:

Preservatives are necessary in cosmetic formulations that contain water, as microorganisms can thrive and reproduce in a water-based environment. Manufacturers always use only the lowest possible effective concentration in their products to ensure a longer shelf life and safe application. One such preservative, Benzalkonium Chloride, not only helps to stabilize formulations but also prevents contamination by users. Maintaining stability and preventing bacterial growth is crucial in the formulation process. Benzalkonium chloride is an antibacterial agent that inhibits the growth of both bacteria and fungi. Its extended alkyl group disrupts the double-layered cell membrane of bacteria, causing leakage of cell contents and preventing further growth. In addition to its antibacterial properties, Benzalkonium chloride also acts as an anti-static agent by neutralizing the electrical charge on surfaces. This cationic surfactant is biodegradable, stable in various environmental conditions, and easily incorporated into different formulations.

Mechanism of Action:

Quaternary ammonium compounds induce leakage of cytoplasmic contents by disrupting the membranes of bacterial, fungal, and enveloped viral membranes. Similar to alcohol-based sanitizers, BAK sanitizers are capable of eliciting fungistatic and bacteriostatic effects against gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria, and also has a weak profile against non-enveloped viruses

Products Containing Benzalkonium Chloride:

It can be found in a variety of products such as baby wipes, deodorants, styling creams and lotions, fixing waxes, hair sprays, shower gels, face creams, solid soaps, facial cleansers, make-up removers, hand creams, scrubs, foundations, hair serums, face serums, and tonics.

Benzalkonium Chloride Safety and Regulatory Considerations:

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits Benzalkonium Chloride in Over-the-Counter (OTC) first-aid antiseptic drug products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel assessed the safety of Benzalkonium Chloride. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated scientific data and concluded that Benzalkonium Chloride, at concentrations up to 0.1% free, was safe as a cosmetic ingredient. Benzalkonium Chloride is moderate to slightly toxic orally (LD₅₀ between 50-500 mg/kg) and is corrosive to skin and eyes at 50% active.

Concentration allowed by European regulations: Up to 3% in finished cosmetic products. Up to 0.1% in finished cosmetic products as a preservative. In the finished product, the concentrations of benzalkonium chloride, bromide and saccharine, whose alkyl chain is equal to or less than C14, must not exceed 0.1%.

Potential Adverse Effects of Benzalkonium Chloride:

Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC) can have adverse effects if misused or in excessive amounts. BAC toxicity can vary depending on the compound’s concentration and exposure duration. BACs are generally safe for use in personal care products when used as directed. However, if they are ingested or come into contact with the eyes or mucous membranes, they can cause irritation, inflammation, and in severe cases, tissue damage. Its prolonged contact with the skin can occasionally cause irritation and hypersensitivity. Studies have also suggested that prolonged exposure to BAC may lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can be a severe public health concern. In addition, some individuals may be more sensitive to BACs than others and may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when exposed to even low compound concentrations.

The Benzalkonium Chlorides produced by Padideh Shimi Jam Company are listed below: