Cationic Guar Gum is a positively charged conditioning polymer designed for surfactant systems.
It improves combability, reduces friction, and enhances softness in shampoos, shower gels, and cleansing conditioners.
It is especially useful when you want a more conditioned feel from a shampoo without turning it into a heavy product.
Cationic guar needs correct dispersion and hydration to avoid clumps and “fish eyes”, so process matters.
FEATURES
- Shampoo conditioning – improves slip and detangling in rinse-off cleansers.
- Reduces friction – supports softer feel and easier combing.
- Compatible with surfactants – designed to work in anionic-based shampoo systems.
- Efficient dosing – low use levels deliver noticeable conditioning.
BEST FOR
- Shampoos
- 2-in-1 shampoo concepts
- Co-wash cleansers
- Shower gels
- Liquid soaps (conditioning feel)
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride |
|---|---|
| Type | Cationic conditioning polymer (for surfactant systems) |
| Solubility | Water dispersible (hydrates in water) |
| Use Rate | 0.1–0.5% typical. 0.2–0.3% is a common sweet spot for shampoos. |
| CMC | N/A (polymer, not a primary surfactant) |
| pH Compatibility | We recommend finished product pH 4.5–6.5 for most shampoos and rinse-off hair products. |
| Temperature Tolerance | Hydrates at room temperature with time. For faster hydration, use warm water and steady mixing, then avoid aggressive high shear once swollen. |
| Pro Tip | Pre-disperse cationic guar in glycerin or a dry blend before adding to water to prevent clumps. Allow full hydration before adding high surfactant loads and salt, because electrolytes can affect viscosity and polymer build. Keep the dose controlled. Too much can feel coated or cause flake-like residue on some hair types. |
| Appearance | Off-white to pale yellow powder |
| Stability Notes | Incompatible with high levels of anionic thickeners in some systems. Always test with your full surfactant blend, salt curve, fragrance, and preservative. |
| Storage | Keep sealed, cool and dry. Protect from humidity. |
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