AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE
Overview
AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for BUFFERING. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Aqua ammonia, Ammonia solution, Ammonia water, NH4OH
Key Benefits
Ammonium hydroxide has no direct skin benefits. It functions as a pH adjuster in cosmetic and hair care formulations. It shares the same irritancy profile as ammonia, with irritant potential increasing with concentration.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; dilute alkaline pH adjuster used in formulations.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; physicochemical properties
Irritancy Rating
Moderate irritancy; aqueous ammonia solution with pH-dependent corrosivity. In cosmetics, concentrated forms are diluted extensively; the final product pH is adjusted to skin-safe levels (pH 5.5β7). At low concentrations, generally well-tolerated.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; ECHA REACH registration data
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.5β6% (as ammonia equivalent)
Optimal
1β4%
Concentration expressed as ammonia equivalent; regulated the same as ammonia in EU.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
Essentially ammonia dissolved in water. EU Annex III restricted with the same limits as ammonia.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/4) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Treated identically to ammonia under EU Annex III/4 due to its identical chemical activity. The US and Japan permit use under general safety frameworks.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 41 ingredients in the BUFFERING category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Forms naturally when ammonia dissolves in water. Present in rainwater, soil moisture, and natural water bodies. Also produced by decomposition of nitrogen-containing organic matter.
π How It's Made
Simply produced by dissolving ammonia gas in water. The concentration varies β household ammonia is typically 5-10%, while industrial grades can be 25-30% ammonia.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for buffering, denaturant.
π¬ Other Applications
Used as household cleaner, in food processing (as a leavening agent and pH adjuster), water treatment, textile manufacturing, and as a refrigerant.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Ancient Romans collected urine (which breaks down to ammonia) for use in cleaning clothes β fulleries were the laundromats of ancient Rome
- β’ The word 'ammonia' comes from the Temple of Ammon in Egypt, where ammonium chloride was historically gathered from camel dung
- β’ Never mix ammonia-based cleaners with bleach β the reaction produces toxic chloramine gas
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex III/4
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ CIR Safety Assessment of ammonium hydroxide
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
SODIUM HYDROXIDE
AMMONIA
CINNAMAL
COAL TAR
DIETHANOLAMINE
EUGENOL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE under III/4 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE (III/4) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE used for in cosmetics?
AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE is primarily used for buffering in cosmetic products. It also serves as denaturant. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE?
AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For buffering, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.