How to Use AccessQUAT CTB in Your Formulations
What AccessQUAT CTB Does
Have you ever noticed how hair can feel rough and tangled after shampooing? This is because the surface of hair naturally carries a negative charge, especially when damaged. AccessQUAT CTB is a cationic (positively charged) conditioning agent. Think of it like a magnet: its positive charge is strongly attracted to the negative charges on your hair. When it deposits onto the hair shaft, it creates a smooth, even film that flattens the cuticle.
This action is what delivers all the benefits formulators look for: it instantly detangles knots, reduces the static that causes flyaways, and leaves the hair feeling incredibly soft and silky. For the more experienced chemist, this high affinity for hair is called “substantivity,” meaning it adheres to the hair even after rinsing to provide lasting effects. Beyond its primary conditioning role, Cetrimonium Bromide also has antimicrobial properties, which can help support the effectiveness of your preservative system.
Formulation Tips
AccessQUAT CTB is typically effective in a range of 0.1% to 3%. For a lightweight, daily conditioner or a detangling spray, start with 0.5–1.5%. For a rich, deep-conditioning mask for damaged hair, use 2–3%.
Add it to your water phase. Heating the water phase to around 70–75°C (158–167°F) helps ensure complete dissolution—especially when you are using it alongside fatty alcohols like Cetyl or Cetearyl Alcohol to build a stable cream-emulsion conditioner.
Cationic ingredients like this one are generally not compatible with anionic surfactants (as found in most shampoos). If mixed directly, they can form insoluble complexes and reduce performance—this is why conditioning typically happens after shampooing. Use AccessQUAT CTB in formulas built with cationic, non-ionic, or amphoteric partners. It pairs beautifully with fatty alcohols and cationic emulsifiers to create rich, stable conditioners. For best results, target a final product pH between 4 and 6.
Key Formulation Benefits:
- Superior Detangling and Wet Combability: Neutralizes negative charges on hair, smooths the cuticle, and provides exceptional slip to melt away knots and tangles.
- Excellent Anti-Static and Frizz Control: Forms a fine, smoothing film that reduces static and helps control frizz in humid conditions.
- High Substantivity for Lasting Softness: Adsorbs strongly to the hair fiber, delivering a silky, soft feel that persists even after rinsing.
- Versatile for All Conditioner Types: Effective in lightweight leave-ins, rinse-off conditioners, and intensive masks.
- Improves Hair Manageability: Leaves hair smooth, soft, and easy to style, whether wet or dry.
- Multi-Functional Performance: Offers antimicrobial activity that can support your preservative system and overall product stability.