Benzalkonium Chloride (Ingredient Explained + Products)

Preservatives are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in products. They are typically used in cosmetic products to help extend the shelf life of the product.

Some ingredients have the potential to dry out skin, especially in higher concentrations or for those with already dry or sensitive skin. Not everyone will experience dryness from them. How your skin reacts can depend on the product, concentration, and your unique skin type.

Some ingredients are known to be potential triggers for eczema. However, triggers vary greatly between individuals. Keep a diary to identify your personal triggers and work with a dermatologist to develop a gentle, effective routine.

May cause Irritation

Some ingredients have higher irritation potential, particularly for sensitive skin. Common reactions include redness, burning, or itching. If you have sensitive skin, patch test first and introduce these ingredients slowly into your routine.

Benzalkonium Chloride (aka BAC) is a preservative that has been around since the 1930's. It is also a surfactant that gives it mild cleansing and antistatic properties.

BAC works because it carries a positive electrical charge that attract the negative charge of microbe cells (like a magnet). Once BAC sticks to a microbe, it breaks the microbe cell's outer wall and scrambles its proteins to kill it.

The maximum usage percentage for this ingredient is 0.1% in both the EU and Chinese cosmetic regulations.

The CIR Expert Panel has concluded it to be a safe antimicrobial agent in concentrations up to 0.1% and it is permitted up to 3% in rinse off hair products.

BAC can be irritating at higher concentrations but a true allergy to it is pretty rare. Be sure to patch test if you have a damaged skin barrier or just sensitive skin.

Because it's a cation, it is incompatible with anionic surfactants like SLS (they neutralize each other).

What it does

Antimicrobial Capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms

Preservative Tending to preserve or capable of preserving.

Surfactant When added to liquid, surfactants may act as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and dispersants

Prevalence

Less common Percentage of products that contain it

0.2%

Top categories

Cleansers

Treatments

Moisturizers

Position Predominant list placement

Bottom 50%

Concentration Concentrations we've seen

0% to 0%

Great fit for your skin

Benzalkonium Chloride

Explained

What it does

Prevalence

CosIng Data