Overview
Hexamidine diisethionate (CAS 659-40-5 ), also sold as hexamidine isethionate, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial active used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. It targets bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, making it a reliable preservative and biocide.
In topical products where microbial control is a formulation requirement, this compound provides consistent efficacy. In cosmetics, it functions as a preservative in rinse-off and leave-on products including shampoos and facial cleansers.
It is frequently utilized as a paraben-free alternative in moisturizers and other personal care items. Topical pharmaceutical preparations, such as antiseptic creams and eye drops, use it as the primary antimicrobial active at low effective concentrations.
The material also appears in contact lens care solutions, where its activity against Acanthamoeba addresses a specific microbial risk. This risk is often not covered by many standard preservatives used in ophthalmic applications.
Wound care and skin antiseptic formulations incorporate it where a water-soluble, low-irritation biocide is preferred. The chemical is supplied as a white to off-white powder suitable for various industrial and medical manufacturing processes.
It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with the latter subject to purity requirements aligned with pharmacopoeial standards such as Ph.Eur. , BP , and EP .
Packaging is typically offered in kilogram quantities for development-scale procurement and larger bulk formats for commercial production. Our supply chain ensures consistent quality and documentation for all industrial chemical requirements.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 246-247° (dec) |
| Density | 671[at 20℃] |
| Appearance | White or slightly yellow powder, hygroscopic |
| Form | neat |
| Water Solubility | 48.2g/L at 20℃ |
| Vapor Pressure | 0Pa at 20℃ |
| Log P | 4.47 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 GHS09 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H319 Causes serious eye irritation H400 Very toxic to aquatic life H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. 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
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 659-40-5
- EC Number
- 211-533-5
- Mol. Weight
- 606.7
- Category
- Pharmaceutical Intermediates