Back to Ingredient Dictionary

TALLOWAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE

Description

Tallowamidopropyl dimethylamine is a cationic surfactant derived from tallow, a rendered form of animal fat. This multifunctional ingredient is widely used in personal care products, particularly in hair conditioners and skin care formulations. Its chemical structure consists of a long-chain fatty acid amide linked to a tertiary amine group, providing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties.

In skincare applications, tallowamidopropyl dimethylamine acts as an emulsifier, helping to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and improve the texture of creams and lotions. It also functions as a conditioning agent, imparting a smooth, silky feel to the skin. The ingredient's cationic nature allows it to adhere to negatively charged surfaces, such as hair and skin, enhancing its effectiveness in leave-on products.

While tallowamidopropyl dimethylamine is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, it may cause irritation in some individuals with sensitive skin. As an animal-derived ingredient, it is not suitable for vegan formulations. Formulators often use this ingredient in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the specific product application and desired effects.