Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-04-02 Origin: Site
In the personal care and cosmetics industry, maintaining product purity, safety, and stability is paramount. Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC), widely known in the industry by its code name 1227 (CAS No.: 8001-54-5), is a highly respected cationic surfactant and antimicrobial agent. It has become a foundational ingredient for formulators worldwide, offering reliable performance across a diverse range of rinse-off and leave-on products.
Benzalkonium Chloride, chemically identified as Dodecyldimethylbenzylammonium Chloride (1227), is a quaternary ammonium compound with the CAS registry number 8001-54-5. It appears as a colorless to pale-yellow liquid or gel, is readily soluble in water, and is celebrated for its excellent stability. Its primary functions in personal care are twofold: acting as a broad-spectrum preservative to prevent microbial contamination and as a mild antimicrobial agent to support skin and scalp health.
BKC/1227 (8001-54-5) is prized for its gentle nature and compatibility with most cosmetic ingredients, making it ideal for numerous applications:
BKC is a cornerstone ingredient in alcohol-free hand sanitizers and antibacterial wet wipes. At concentrations typically between 0.1% and 0.13%, it effectively eliminates common germs like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus without the drying effects of alcohol. It provides long-lasting antimicrobial protection, making it perfect for daily use and on sensitive skin.
Found in shower gels, liquid soaps, and facial washes, 1227 offers dual benefits. Its surfactant properties aid in gentle cleansing and emulsification, while its antimicrobial action helps prevent body odor and keeps the skin’s microbiome balanced. Its low irritation profile ensures it is suitable for daily body washes.
BKC (8001-54-5) is extensively used in shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments. It functions as a preservative to extend shelf life and as an antimicrobial to combat dandruff-causing fungi and soothe irritated scalps. Additionally, its cationic nature acts as a conditioning agent, leaving hair soft, smooth, and static-free.
Safe and effective concentrations of BKC are used in mouthwashes and contact lens solutions. In mouthwashes, it helps reduce plaque and gingivitis-causing bacteria. In lens care, it ensures solutions remain sterile, providing clean and safe contact lenses.
As a preservative in lotions, creams, and cosmetics, BKC inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, ensuring product safety and integrity throughout its shelf life. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has confirmed its safety in leave-on products at concentrations up to 0.1%.
A major advantage of BKC/1227 (8001-54-5) is its established safety profile. When used at recommended levels (typically 0.1%–1.0% for rinse-off, ≤0.1% for leave-on), it is non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing for most skin types. It is stable over a wide pH range, compatible with other ingredients, and does not cause photosensitivity. Its long history of safe use in pharmaceuticals and personal care solidifies its position as a trusted ingredient.
Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC/1227, CAS 8001-54-5) is an indispensable, multi-functional ingredient for the personal care and cosmetics industry. It combines powerful antimicrobial protection, gentle cleansing, and excellent preservation capabilities with a well-documented safety record. For formulators seeking to create effective, stable, and safe products for daily care, BKC/1227 remains the gold-standard, reliable choice.
