Solutions Guide
Benzalkonium Chloride as a Cosmetic Preservative
Benzalkonium Chloride is a CTFA / Cosmetics Europe approved cosmetic preservative and conditioning agent, declared under INCI name 'Benzalkonium Chloride'. Vasudev Chemo Pharma supplies Cosmetic Grade BKC 50% and 80% for hair conditioners, shampoos, mouthwashes and leave-on personal-care products.
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Regulatory use limits
Under EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex V, BKC is permitted at a maximum of 0.1% active in rinse-off products and 0.05% in leave-on products. It also functions as a positively-charged conditioning agent in 2-in-1 shampoo systems and is compatible with cationic conditioning polymers (Polyquaternium-7, Polyquaternium-10, behentrimonium chloride).
Grade and formulation
Cosmetic Grade BKC from Vasudev Chemo Pharma is CTFA-compliant and GMP-certified. Formulators typically dose from a diluted stock; from BKC 80% concentrate, 0.125% product delivers 0.1% active (rinse-off) and 0.0625% delivers 0.05% active (leave-on). Avoid anionic surfactants, which reduce cationic preservative efficacy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the INCI name for BKC in cosmetics?+
'Benzalkonium Chloride' (COSING reference 31618).
What are the maximum cosmetic use levels?+
Under EU Annex V, 0.1% active in rinse-off and 0.05% active in leave-on products.
Do you supply a cosmetic grade?+
Yes — CTFA-compliant, GMP-certified Cosmetic Grade BKC 50% and 80%, with documentation on request.