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CAS 4080-31-3

1-(3-Chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadamantane chloride

This preservative and antimicrobial (also called quaternium-15) helps stop bacteria and mold. It matters because it can cause skin allergies and slowly releases formaldehyde, an irritant and known human carcinogen [1][2][3][4].

Where It Comes From

Found in some cosmetics and personal care items; also used as an antimicrobial in certain industrial water systems [1][5].

How You Are Exposed

Mainly through skin contact with products that list quaternium-15; workers may also breathe vapors or mists during mixing or use [1][2].

Why It Matters

Can trigger allergic contact dermatitis; released formaldehyde can irritate eyes, nose, and throat and is carcinogenic with long-term exposure [1][2][3][4].

Who Is at Risk

People with eczema or prior formaldehyde allergy; salon and healthcare staff using preserved products; workers who manufacture or use industrial antimicrobial products [1][2][5].

How to Lower Your Exposure

Choose products labeled “formaldehyde-free” and avoid quaternium-15 on ingredient lists; at work, improve ventilation and use gloves/eye protection and follow Safety Data Sheets [1][2].

References

  1. [1]FDA. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives in Cosmetics.
  2. [2]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Formaldehyde.
  3. [3]IARC. Monographs, Vol. 100F: Formaldehyde (Group 1).
  4. [4]NTP. Report on Carcinogens: Formaldehyde (Known Human Carcinogen).
  5. [5]NIH/NLM PubChem. 1-(3-Chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadamantane chloride (Quaternium-15) — Compound Summary (CAS 4080-31-3).

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