Unlocking Slip and Detangling: Classic Hair Conditioner with a twist
My typical usage rate for cationic guar in emulsions is usually 0.2% or 0.3%. However, I recently came across a formulation that used 0.8% cationic guar and paired it with 4% polyquat 7. I must admit, this blend in such quantities is not something I would have tried on a regular day.
The formulation itself is rather simple, a blend of cetearyl alcohol and Behentrimonium chloride (which I’m substituting for Cetrimonium Chloride), a small oil phase ( am using shea butter and Palm Kernel oil), as well as the cationic guar and polyquat 7. Its is to serve as a rinse-off conditioner that offers substantial slip and effective detangling. For those of us with curly or coily hair that tends to become matted, any formulation promising ample slip and efficient detangling is undoubtedly of great interest
My Oil phase
cetearyl alcohol (5%), shea butter and coconut oil.
Water Phase
Cetrimonium Chloride (2%), cationic guar (0.8%), citric acid, glycerin and water
CITRIC ACID
Detangling Rinse Off Conditioner Formula
| Phase | Ingredient | % |
| A | Cetearyl Alcohol | 5 |
| Shea Butter | 3 | |
| Coconut Oil | 3 | |
| B | Cationic Guar | 0.8 |
| Glycerin | 3 | |
| Water | 77.2 | |
| Cetrimonium Chloride | 2 | |
| Citric Acid | 0.5 | |
| C | Polyquaternium 7 | 4 |
| Cherry Fragrance | 1 | |
| Germall Plus | 0.5 |
I will test this method and return to update this post regarding its performance. If you decide to give it a try, please share your feedback in the comments section below. Feel free to mention your hair type for reference.
If you are in Ghana, you can click the link below to order cationic guar and polyquat 7 directly from our website.
Can I substitute cetearyl alcohol with cetyl alcohol?
Yes, you can make the substitution; however, expect a slight change in appearance and texture.
Is cetearyl alcohol an emulsifier?
Cetearyl alcohol is an emulsion stabiliser, co-emulsifier and viscosity increasing agent that provides an emollient skin feel in skin and hair products. Here it is working together with the Cetrimonium Chloride to create a stable emulsion.
Can I use a different oil besides coconut oil?
Coconut oil strengthens and adds shine to hair cuticles, working in tandem with shea butter to achieve a perfect balance of softness and strength. But, you can definately swap it out for other oils of your choice.
Can I use a different preservative?
Yes you can. Remember to use in the recommended amount for that preservative.
Would you like additional assistance?
Are any of your questions unanswered? We would be happy to address them – get in touch.