Fonction cosmétique agent antistatique

Antistatic Agent: What is its role in cosmetics?

Used in the treatment of surfaces, materials, paints and varnishes, antistatic agents are also favoured ingredients in cosmetics, particularly for formulating hair care products. Discover here the various functions of antistatic agents found in formulation.

Summary
Published September 30, 2024, updated on September 30, 2024, by Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication — 5 min read

Why incorporate antistatic agents into cosmetic formulation?

An antistatic agent is an ingredient incorporated into a formulation with the aim of limiting static electricity. This is a physical phenomenon resulting from an imbalance of electrical charges present within or on the surface of a material. In a neutral state, positive and negative charges balance each other out. However, due to friction or contact, electrons can be transferred from one object to another, thereby causing charge imbalances.

In the field of cosmetics, the issue of static electricity is primarily known in relation to hair. Indeed, when hair is brushed or subjected to friction, against a hat or jumper for example, it can lose or gain electrons. The hair then becomes electrically charged. However, let's remember that like charges repel each other while opposite charges attract. This phenomenon creates an unruly effect, characterised by strands of hair standing on end. Fine hair is particularly prone to static electricity because the surface of their cuticle is larger. Furthermore, cold weather intensifies this phenomenon as it makes the air less conductive. Hair then tends to become more charged with electricity.

The primary function of antistatic agents used in cosmetics is to protect the hair from static electricity by neutralising the electrical charges accumulated on their surface.

The mode of action of antistatic agents is based on their ability to balance the distribution of electrical charges on the surface of the hair. Products formulated with these agents, such as conditioners, serums or even styling sprays, typically contain cationic substances that interact with the negative charges naturally present on hair fibres. This interaction creates a neutralisation of charges, thus reducing static electricity and taming the hair.

In addition to reducing static electricity, antistatic agents enhance the action of texturising agents and contribute to improving the sensory experience of cosmetics. Indeed, these ingredients facilitate the formation of a light film on the surface of the hair that coats the hair fibres. This not only helps to minimise frizz, but also aids in softening the hair and making it easier to style.

Although less common, antistatic agents are sometimes found in skincare products, particularly in those intended for body application. Their presence in these formulations helps to mitigate the effects of electrostatic friction from clothing on the skin, thereby enhancing the comfort of the skincare routine. The main antistatic agents used in cosmetics are listed in the table below.

Antistatic AgentMechanism of Action
Quaternium-18An antistatic agent that neutralises negative electrical charges by forming a smooth film on the hair surface.
Polyquaternium-10A cationic surfactant that neutralises negative electrical charges by forming a smooth film on the hair surface.
Behentrimonium ChlorideAn antistatic agent that neutralises negative electrical charges by forming a smooth film on the hair surface.
HydroxyethylcelluloseA polymer that forms a film on the hair, reducing static electricity by minimising friction.
Acrylate CopolymersAntistatic agents that form a flexible film on the hair, reducing friction and static electricity.
Collagen HydrolysatesPeptides that form a protective film on the hair, preventing the formation of electrostatic charges.
Silicone derivatives (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane...)Compounds that create a smooth and hydrophobic film on the hair, reducing friction and static electricity.
Les principaux agents antistatiques utilisés en cosmétique.

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