Truth In Aging

Quaternium 8

* A conditioning agent

Functions:

Very little information is available regarding Quaternium 8, although it is sometimes referred to as Silicone Quaternium 8, including by the Cosmetics Database. It is used as a hair-conditioning agent and anti-static agent in hair products, and sometimes as a skin-conditioning agent in the cosmetics and beauty industry, and also has foaming properties.

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

The Cosmetics Database finds Quaternium 8 to be a 100% safe ingredient, although it does note data gaps. A report published by a governing body in Australia, the NATIONAL INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS NOTIFICATION
AND ASSESSMENT SCHEME, notes that Quaternium 8 contains no hazardous impurities, but can be irritating to the eyes. No other studies were found that noted any negative side effects.

Recommended Products w/ Quaternium 8:

Davine’s Natural Tech Hairbuilding Pak

Quaternium 18 Hectorite

* A suspending agent

Functions:

Quaterniuum 18 Hectorite is a mixture of quaternary ammonium chloride salts, reacted with clays, according to RealSelf.com. It is used as a suspending and viscosity controlling agent in cosmetics and personal care products, and also has emulsifying properties. It is seen in formulas for a variety of products, including lipstick, face makeup, eye shadows, rouge, mascara, skin gels, skin creams, skin lotions, hair care products, and cleaners (CosmeticsCop.com).

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

The Cosmetics Database finds Quaternium 18 Hectorite to be a 99% safe ingredient, and it is CIR approved for use. According to the International Journal of Toxicology article entitled “Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Quaternium-18, Quaternium-18 Hectorite, and Quaternium-18 Bentonite,” it is a poorly absorbed compound that exhibits little to no toxic effects, and is a nonirritating and nonsensitizing agent, and “does not present adverse phototoxic or photo-allergenic effects.”  Read more...