Monoethanolamine thioglycolate

CAS: 126-97-6

Overview

Monoethanolamine thioglycolate (CAS 126-97-6 ), also known as ethanolamine thioglycolate, is a salt formed from monoethanolamine and thioglycolic acid used primarily as a reducing agent in hair treatment formulations.

It breaks disulfide bonds in keratin, enabling permanent restructuring of hair fiber. The compound is the active ingredient in professional and consumer permanent wave solutions, where it softens and reshapes the hair's internal protein structure.

Before neutralization fixes the new curl pattern, the chemical works to modify the protein bonds. Depilatory creams rely on it to degrade the disulfide linkages in hair at the skin surface, enabling chemical hair removal without mechanical abrasion.

Straightening and relaxing formulations for coarse or curly hair use it as an alternative to lye-based systems. This is particularly common in formulations targeting sensitive scalp conditions where milder chemical agents are preferred for safety.

It also functions in hair bond-breaking pre-treatments used ahead of color or bleach services to reduce mechanical damage. Monoethanolamine thioglycolate is supplied as a liquid, typically as an aqueous solution for industrial use.

Cosmetic-grade material is the standard commercial form, with specifications aligned to industry requirements for active content and pH range. Buyers should confirm concentration and purity certificates when sourcing for regulated personal care markets.

Physical Properties

Boiling Point	124.85°C[at 101 325 Pa]
Density	1.249[at 20℃]
Color	Colorless to Almost colorless
Form	clear liquid
Water Solubility	1000g/L at 20℃
Vapor Pressure	0.048Pa at 25℃
Log P	-2.99 at 20℃

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS06 GHS07 GHS08 Hazard Statements H290 May be corrosive to metals H301 Toxic if swallowed H312 Harmful in contact with skin H315 Causes skin irritation H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction H319 Causes serious eye irritation H330 Fatal if inhaled H335 May cause respiratory irritation H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure Precautionary Statements P234 Keep only in original packaging. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P284 In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P320 Specific treatment is urgent (see … on this label). P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P390 Absorb spillage to prevent material damage. P405 Store locked up. P406 Store in a corrosion-resistant/… container with a resistant inner liner. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code

2930.90.9250

Other Names

Industries

Personal Care & Cosmetics