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Hair Conditioning

PEI-42

45

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

A polyethyleneimine polymer used as a cationic conditioning agent. Cytotoxicity scales with molecular weight and residual monomer is genotoxic, so use levels are tightly controlled.

Function

DISPERSING NON-SURFACTANT

Skin benefits

  • Cationic film-forming polymer
  • Conditions and adheres to hair / skin
  • Used in haircare for substantivity

Known concerns

  • Polyethyleneimines can be cytotoxic at high MW
  • Possible eye irritation at higher levels
  • Residual ethyleneimine monomer is genotoxic
  • Limited cosmetic CIR/SCCS opinion

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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DICOCAMINE
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PALMITAMINE
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PEI-15
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SR-(METHIONYL HEXAPEPTIDE-40 OLIGOPEPTIDE-231 S-SPIDER POLYPEPTIDE-1) FORMATE
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STEARAMIDOPROPALKONIUM CHLORIDE
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TALL OIL BENZYL HYDROXYETHYL IMIDAZOLINIUM CHLORIDE
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BIS-HYDROXYETHYL COCOMONIUM NITRATE
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.