Cassia Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a cationic guar-like polymer derived from the endosperm of Cassia tora or Cassia obtusifolia seeds (a plant in the legume family). It is chemically modified with hydroxypropyl and quaternary ammonium groups to create a highly substantive conditioning agent. This off-white to pale yellow powder or granular solid provides excellent detangling, frizz control, shine, softness, and volume with very low build-up. It often outperforms traditional guar derivatives in clarity and slip. It is especially popular in sulfate-free, natural, and clean beauty hair care lines, including shampoos, conditioners, masks, leave-in treatments, and styling products.
Products with CASSIA HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE
With samples available
clearhance™ c conditioning polymer
by Ashland
- Sustainable option
Sensomer™ Cassia 115 polymer
by Lubrizol
- Sustainable option
Styleze™ CSP
by Ashland
What is CASSIA HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE used for?
- Hair conditioning: Softens hair, reduces frizz, improves wet and dry combing, and adds shine. Frequently used in shampoos, conditioners, masks, and leave-ins for damaged, dry, or curly hair.
- Antistatic agent: Eliminates static electricity and controls flyaways. Ideal for anti-frizz serums, styling products, and formulations targeting humid or dry climates.
- Film forming / Substantivity: Forms a light protective film on hair for lasting conditioning even after rinsing. Common in rinse-off and leave-on products for improved manageability and volume without heaviness.
Origin
Cassia Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is derived from cassia gum (a galactomannan polysaccharide from cassia seeds). It is a natural, renewable source similar to guar gum but with a different mannose-to-galactose ratio. The raw gum is chemically modified through etherification with propylene oxide and quaternization with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride. The resulting cationic polymer is purified, dried, and milled. It is 100% vegetable-derived, biodegradable, and widely available in COSMOS, ECOCERT, and natural-certified grades.
What does CASSIA HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE do in a formulation?
ANTISTATIC|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
FILM FORMINGSafety Profile
Cassia Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is considered safe for cosmetic use per CIR assessments of cationic guar derivatives (safe as used). It has a low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1) with minimal concerns for irritation or sensitization at typical concentrations (0.1-1%). It is non-comedogenic, well-tolerated across hair and skin types, and shows very low build-up even with repeated use. Rare allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to galactomannans or quaternary ammonium compounds. Patch testing is advised.
CASSIA HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE alternatives
CASSIA HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes (>200°C) |
| pH | 5.0 - 7.0 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Viscosity | High |