Myrtrimonium Bromide

What is Myrtrimonium Bromide?

Myrtrimonium bromide is a synthetic cationic surfactant, specifically a quaternary ammonium salt formed from myristyl chains and trimethylamine with a bromide counterion. It appears primarily in rinse-off hair care formulations like conditioners and detanglers. In products, it functions by adsorbing onto the negatively charged surface of hair shafts, neutralizing electrostatic charges to minimize flyaways and improve slip for easier combing. Its positively charged structure also disrupts microbial cell membranes, providing antimicrobial action to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth, thereby extending product shelf life. This dual functionality makes it valuable in formulations aimed at enhancing hair feel while maintaining stability during use and storage. It is typically incorporated at levels suitable for cosmetic safety standards.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 4 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Antistatic agent
Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.
Biocide
Destroys or inhibits harmful organisms to preserve products.
Preservative
Protects the product from microbial contamination during storage and use, helping maintain safety, stability, and shelf life.

Benefits

Helps control static electricity in hair for smoother styling.

Improves hair manageability and reduces tangles in conditioners.

Supports product preservation against microbial contamination.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with frizzy or static-prone hair seeking better detangling.
People with known sensitivity to quaternary ammonium compounds.
Users of hair conditioning products for enhanced smoothness.
Those prone to eye irritation from hair products.
Consumers looking for stable, long-lasting hair care formulas.
Individuals experiencing contact dermatitis from similar surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered suitable for use in rinse-off cosmetics per safety assessments.
  • Potential for mild irritation exists, especially in concentrated forms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Myrtrimonium Bromide

What is the main role of Myrtrimonium Bromide in cosmetics?

It acts as an antistatic agent to reduce hair flyaways and as a biocide to preserve products.

Is Myrtrimonium Bromide comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

Can it cause irritation?

Possible mild irritation for sensitive users, but generally low risk in rinse-off products.