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Benzalkonium Chloride

TYPE OF INGREDIENT​
Preservative and antimicrobial agent
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Hand sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, ophthalmic solutions, nasal sprays, and antiseptic creams

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE?

Benzalkonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound valued for its antimicrobial properties. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making it a common preservative and disinfectant in personal care and medical products. It helps extend product shelf life and maintain hygiene in topical applications.

WHAT IS BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE?

Benzalkonium chloride is a synthetic quaternary ammonium compound used as a preservative, surfactant, and antimicrobial agent in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. It is also recognized as a potential trigger for axillary granular parakeratosis, a rare skin condition characterized by hyperkeratotic, brownish-red papules in the axillae, likely due to its irritant properties when used in deodorants or antiperspirants.

IS BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?

Benzalkonium chloride is generally safe for most skin types and tones when used in low concentrations as a preservative. However, it is a known contact allergen and irritant, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or prolonged exposure to BAC-containing products. Allergic contact dermatitis has been reported, and BAC may also contribute to axillary granular parakeratosis in susceptible individuals. Patch testing with BAC at 0.1% aqueous solution is recommended for those experiencing dermatitis or granular parakeratosis in areas exposed to BAC-containing products.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to benzalkonium chloride or quaternary ammonium compounds should avoid its use. Patients experiencing contact dermatitis or axillary granular parakeratosis should consult a dermatologist, who may recommend patch testing, symptomatic treatment with topical corticosteroids, or switching to alternative products free of BAC.

Sources:

      1. Wentworth AB, Yiannias JA, Davis MD, et al. Benzalkonium chloride: A potential allergen in personal care products. Dermatitis. 2016 Mar-Apr;27(2):68-73. doi: 10.1097/DER.0000000000000167. PMID: 26983088.
      2. North DS, Fish DN. Granular parakeratosis: A reaction to benzalkonium chloride in antiperspirants. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Aug;59(2):S46-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.05.014. PMID: 18625385.
      3. Isaac J, Scheinman PL. Benzalkonium Chloride: An Irritant and Sensitizer. Dermatitis. 2017 Nov/Dec;28(6):346-352. doi: 10.1097/DER.0000000000000316. PMID: 28885313.

      Aamir Hussain, MD, MAPP

      Author

      Dr. Aamir Hussain is a dermatologist currently practicing adult and pediatric dermatology in Northern Virginia. He serves on the health policy committee of the American Contact Dermatitis Society and has a clinical interest in patch testing. Dr. Hussain is an internationally-recognized speaker, writer and educator. His writings on health policy, medical education and the connections between healthcare and faith have been featured in prestigious media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Hill, and The Baltimore Sun. He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and is the author of several book chapters. He has presented research at major conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology, World Congress of Dermatology, Society of Pediatric Dermatology, American Contact Dermatitis Society, American Society of Dermatopathology, Society of Investigative Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.