Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
GWAR hy-DROX-ee-PROH-pul-try-MOH-nee-um KLOR-ide
What Is Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride?
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a cationic (positively charged) derivative of guar gum, a natural polysaccharide from guar beans. It is one of the most effective natural-derived conditioning polymers and is extensively used in shampoos and conditioners. It provides excellent wet combability and conditioning with a natural origin story.
Source: Guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba), chemically modified
Origin: Semi-synthetic
Also known as: Cationic Guar, Guar Gum Derivative, Jaguar C-14S
What Does Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride Do to Your Hair?
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride deposits onto the negatively charged hair surface during rinsing, forming a conditioning film that dramatically improves wet combability. It reduces friction, adds softness, and provides anti-static benefits. It is particularly effective in shampoo systems where it conditions while the hair is being cleansed — a dual-action effect that consumers love.
Best For
All hair types, curly hair (3A-4C), tangled hair, damaged hair, color-treated hair
Not Recommended For
Not significantly problematic for any hair type
Concentration Matters
0.1-2%
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Extremely safe. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing. CIR panel considers safe at typical cosmetic concentrations. Derived from a food-grade natural gum. Biodegradable. One of the most well-tolerated conditioning polymers available.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA permits use in cosmetics without restrictions. Guar gum base is GRAS for food use. CIR panel considers safe as used.
EWG Score: 1/10
HairAide Verdict
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a gold-standard conditioning polymer that HairAide highly recommends. Its plant-derived origin, excellent safety profile, and outstanding performance in detangling make it a winner. If you see this on an ingredient list, the product is likely well-formulated for conditioning.
Products That Contain Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Shampoos, conditioners, 2-in-1 shampoos, detangling sprays, leave-in treatments
Alternatives to Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
If you want to avoid Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Polyquaternium-10, Polyquaternium-7, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride has a safety rating of 9/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Extremely safe. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing. CIR panel considers safe at typical cosmetic concentrations. Derived from a food-grade natural gum. Biodegradable. One of the most well-tolerated conditioning polymers available.
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride include: Polyquaternium-10, Polyquaternium-7, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
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