Xanthan Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
AKA “Cationic Xanthan Gum, Hair Conditioning Polymer
Humectant
Ingredient Facts
Xanthan hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride
AKA: Cationic Xanthan Gum, Hair Conditioning Polymer
Humectant · Humectant · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Humectant
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Not Clean
Xanthan Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is the quaternary ammonium salt formed by the reaction of Xanthan Gum with 2,3-epoxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride.
See origin →
Functions
Hair Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Modern cosmetic ingredient derived from xanthan gum with chemical modification in the late 20th century. Created to enhance hair conditioning and provide improved texture in formulations over unmodified xanthan gum.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR