PEG-3 Dioleoylamidoethylmonium Methosulfate

What is PEG-3 Dioleoylamidoethylmonium Methosulfate?

PEG-3 Dioleoylamidoethylmonium Methosulfate is a quaternary ammonium salt synthesized from oleic acid, a fatty acid sourced from plant oils like olive or sunflower. It incorporates a short PEG-3 chain (three ethylene oxide units) linked to a dioleamidoethyl structure, forming a positively charged cation paired with a methosulfate anion. This gives it surfactant-like and conditioning qualities ideal for hair care formulations, especially rinse-off conditioners, leave-in treatments, and styling aids. In products, it adheres electrostatically to hair's negatively charged keratin surface, counteracting static buildup from shampooing or brushing. By forming a protective film, it minimizes inter-fiber friction, promotes even distribution of other emollients, and imparts a silky texture without weighing hair down. Its mild emulsifying action helps blend water-insoluble ingredients like oils into stable emulsions.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

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.
Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.

Benefits

Neutralizes static electricity on hair for reduced flyaways and easier styling.

Coats hair shafts to decrease friction, improving comb-through and softness.

Supports formulation of lightweight conditioners that enhance shine and smoothness.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with fine or straight hair prone to static in dry environments.
Those with allergies to quaternary ammonium compounds.
Individuals seeking detangling benefits in daily hair routines.
People avoiding ethoxylated ingredients due to purity concerns.
Users of chemical-treated hair needing lightweight conditioning.
Individuals sensitive to cationic surfactants in rinse-off products.

Safety Notes

  • Generally considered safe in rinse-off hair products by cosmetic review panels.
  • Low potential for pore-clogging based on structure and usage patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-3 Dioleoylamidoethylmonium Methosulfate

What products contain PEG-3 Dioleoylamidoethylmonium Methosulfate?

Commonly found in hair conditioners, detanglers, and styling creams for antistatic effects.

Is it suitable for daily hair care?

Yes, in rinse-off products, it supports routine conditioning without buildup.

Does it affect scalp health?

Typically used in hair-targeted formulas with low scalp contact and mild profile.