Ammonium Persulfate is a chemical compound commonly used in the cosmetic industry as a powerful oxidizing agent. Its primary function is to facilitate the bleaching and lightening processes in hair color formulations, making it a popular choice in hair dyes and bleaching products.
Ammonium Persulfate is utilized in various cosmetic formulations for its ability to enhance the effectiveness of other ingredients, particularly in the context of skin treatments and exfoliation. This ingredient is known for its stability and effectiveness, contributing to the overall performance of cosmetic products in which it is included.
CAS Number: 7727-54-0
Molecular Formula: H8N2O8S2
Synonyms:
- ammonium persulfate
- ammonium peroxydisulfate
Properties of Ammonium Persulfate
Chemical Identifiers
| EC Number | 231-786-5 |
| UNII | 22QF6L357F |
| InChIKey | ROOXNKNUYICQNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | [NH4+].[NH4+].[O-]S(=O)(=O)OOS(=O)(=O)[O-] |
| IUPAC Name | diazanium;sulfonatooxy sulfate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/2H3N.H2O8S2/c;;1-9(2,3)7-8-10(4,5)6/h2*1H3;(H,1,2,3)(H,4,5,6) |
Physical and Chemical Properties
Ammonium Persulfate is a white crystalline solid known for its strong oxidizing properties. It is not easily combustible but has the potential to ignite organic substances spontaneously. This compound finds applications as a bleaching agent in various industries and serves as a preservative in food products. It is often utilized in polymerization processes and as an initiator for chemical reactions due to its ability to generate free radicals.
| Property | Value |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.98 at 68°F – Denser than water; will sink |
| Color/Form | Platelike or prismatic (monoclinic) crystals, or white granular powder |
| Solubility | Solubility in water: 83.5 g/100 g water at 25°C |
| Melting Point | Decomposes at 120°C |
| Decomposition | When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and ammonia. |
| Other Experimental Properties | Strong oxidizer |
Structural Properties
Ammonium Persulfate is a complex compound with a molecular weight of 228.21 g/mol and a relatively simple structure. It contains 12 heavy atoms and has no formal charge, making it electrically neutral. The compound has a few bonds that can rotate and participates in hydrogen bonding, both as a donor and acceptor.
It also has a significant polar surface area. This molecule is canonicalized, meaning it exists in its most stable, standardized form. It does not have any stereocenters, and its structure is well-defined and unambiguous.
| Property | Value |
| Complexity | 206 |
| Exact Mass | 227.97220756 g/mol |
| Formal Charge | 0 |
| Heavy Atom Count | 12 |
| Molecular Weight | 228.21 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 227.97220756 g/mol |
| Isotope Atom Count | 0 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 1 |
| Compound Is Canonicalized | Yes |
| Hydrogen Bond Donor Count | 2 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count | 8 |
| Covalently-Bonded Unit Count | 3 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 152 Ų |
| Defined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Defined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
Uses of Ammonium Persulfate in Cosmetics
Functional role in cosmetics:
- Ammonium Persulfate is used as a Bleaching agent in cosmetics.
Other uses:
- Viscosity adjustors
- Plating agent
- In food additives as a flour treatment agent
Cosmetic Products Containing Ammonium Persulfate
Recent products using Ammonium Persulfate in their cosmetic formulations
- L’Oreal Blondifier Freehand Lightener
- Wella Blondor Multi Blonde Powder
- Schwarzkopf Igora Vario Blond Plus
- Redken Flash Lift Bonder Inside
- Matrix Light Master Lightening Powder
- Pravana Pure Light Ultra Lightener
- Joico Vero K-PAK Crème Lightener
- Goldwell Oxycur Platin Dust-Free Lightener
- Paul Mitchell Synchrolift Lightener
- Clairol BW2 Powder Lightener
Top companies using Ammonium Persulfate in their cosmetic products
- L’Oreal
- Wella Professionals
- Schwarzkopf Professional
- Redken
- Matrix
- Pravana
- Joico
- Goldwell
- Paul Mitchell
- Clairol
How Ammonium Persulfate Works in Formulations
Ammonium Persulfate is commonly used in cosmetics as a strong oxidizing agent, particularly in hair bleaching and coloring products. It helps break down melanin for effective lightening.
Ideal Concentration and Benefits in Different Formulations
Hair Bleaching Products
Ammonium Persulfate is widely used in hair bleach formulations, both in powder and cream formats. Careful formulation is required to minimize skin irritation, as high concentrations can be harsh on sensitive areas
- Concentration: 20%–40%
- Benefit: Enables rapid oxidation, breaking down melanin for efficient lightening of hair.
Hair Coloring Products
It also plays a crucial role in permanent hair dye formulations, acting as an activator to enhance color penetration. Essential for achieving long-lasting color in permanent hair dyes.
- Concentration: 1%–3%
- Benefit: Facilitates the bonding of pigments, contributing to vibrant color results.
Other Applications (e.g., Skin Lightening)
Occasionally used in skin-lightening formulations, though less common due to irritation risks. Supports oxidative processes for pigment reduction.
Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Ammonium Persulfate is highly reactive and it requires stabilization with other ingredients to prevent premature decomposition. Compatible with peroxide systems but must avoid contact with incompatible materials like organic compounds or metals. May cause skin or respiratory irritation; patch testing is recommended for sensitive users.
Stability and Shelf Life
Ammonium Persulfate is stable when stored properly, but it must be kept in conditions that minimize its reactivity.
- Shelf life: 12–24 months
- Best storage: Store in airtight containers, away from moisture and heat to maintain its effectiveness. Use HDPE or glass containers that can withstand degradation from oxidizing agents.
Formulation Challenges and Troubleshooting
Ammonium Persulfate presents several formulation challenges due to its reactivity, potential for irritation, and compatibility issues:
Reactivity and Decomposition
Ammonium Persulfate is highly reactive and may decompose prematurely if exposed to moisture or heat during storage or use.
Solution: Store in airtight containers under cool, dry conditions. Use stabilizers to enhance shelf life.
Skin and Respiratory Irritation
At high concentrations or prolonged exposure, Ammonium Persulfate may cause irritation or sensitization.
Solution: Limit use to rinse-off formulations. Include warning labels and recommend patch testing for sensitive individuals.
Packaging Compatibility
Its oxidative nature can degrade certain packaging materials over time, leading to contamination or leakage.
Solution: Use glass or HDPE containers resistant to oxidizing agents for safe storage.
Odor Sensitivity
Ammonium Persulfate may release a sharp odor during decomposition or reaction processes.
Solution: Use odor-neutralizing agents when necessary.
Is Ammonium Persulfate Safe in Cosmetics?
Safety reports for Ammonium Persulfate are given below:
- Amended Safety Assessment of Persulfates as Used in Cosmetics. Download PDF
- Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Ammonium, Potassium, and Sodium Persulfate. Download PDF
Regulatory Considerations for Using Ammonium Persulfate in Cosmetic Formulations
Few Regulatory considerations are to be taken into account before using Ammonium Persulfate as an ingredient. Given below is the list of those regulations:
REACH Registered Substance: The substance is registered with an active status as of May 3, 2022.
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status: Peroxydisulfuric acid, diammonium salt, has been approved with controls under HSNO Approval HSR001311.
The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals: The chemical, identified as peroxydisulfuric acid (((HO)S(O)2)2O2), diammonium salt, requires obligations to provide information. Users must notify the authorities within 28 days if the circumstances of importation or manufacture differ from those in the assessment.
California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Reportable Ingredient: This substance is classified for respiratory toxicity under the EC Annex VI Resp. Sens. – Cat. 1. It must be reported if used as a fragrance or flavor ingredient.
Ammonium Persulfate Side Effects
Ammonium Persulfate is classified as a strong oxidizing agent, which can pose several toxicity risks. Inhalation of its dust or vapors can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Direct contact with skin or eyes may result in irritation or burns due to its corrosive nature. Ingestion of Ammonium Persulfate can cause gastrointestinal irritation, with potential symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Environmental exposure can lead to adverse effects on aquatic life, as Ammonium Persulfate is harmful to fish and other organisms in water bodies.
Proper handling, storage, and disposal are critical to minimize risks associated with its toxicity. Personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, is recommended when working with this chemical to prevent exposure.
Potential Risks
Given below is the list of potential side effects associated with the use of Ammonium Persulfate in cosmetics:
- Contact dermatitis, allergic (Skin Disease)
- Asthma, occupational (Airway Disease)
- Contact urticaria (Skin Disease)
Symptoms
- Eye Exposure: May cause redness and pain.
- Skin Exposure: May cause redness, burning sensation, and pain.
- Ingestion Exposure: May cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and sore throat.
- Inhalation Exposure: May cause cough, sore throat, wheezing, and laboured breathing.
Interactions
Ammonium persulphate (APS) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), key components in hair bleaching products, were evaluated for their effects on airway responsiveness in rabbits. Inhalation exposure for 4 hours to a bleach formulation containing APS, potassium persulphate, and H₂O₂, or to H₂O₂ alone, did not affect baseline airway resistance, lung elasticity, or blood parameters.
However, exposure to aerosols with at least 10.9 mg/m³ persulphates and 1.36 mg/m³ H₂O₂ led to increased airway responsiveness to acetylcholine. In contrast, H₂O₂ aerosols alone (≥37 mg/m³) showed no such effect. These results suggest that persulphate-containing bleach products can induce airway hyperresponsiveness.
Adverse Effects
Skin Sensitizer – An agent that can induce an allergic reaction in the skin.
Asthma – Reversible bronchoconstriction (narrowing of bronchioles) initiated by the inhalation of irritating or allergenic agents.
Exposure Routes
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol and by ingestion.
Antidote and Emergency Treatment
In cases of exposure, secure airway management is critical. Orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation should be considered for patients who are unconscious, have severe pulmonary edema, or respiratory distress. Early intubation is advised if upper airway obstruction is suspected.
Positive-pressure ventilation using a bag-valve-mask may help. Administer beta-agonists like albuterol for bronchospasm and monitor cardiac rhythm for arrhythmias. Initiate IV fluids with D5W at a minimal rate; use normal saline or lactated Ringer’s if hypovolemia is present.
Administer fluids cautiously in hypotension and consider vasopressors if necessary. Monitor for fluid overload. For eye exposure, proparacaine hydrochloride may be used to facilitate irrigation.
Environmental and Sustainability Impact
Ammonium Persulfate is used in cosmetics primarily as an oxidizing agent, particularly in hair bleaching and coloring products. It facilitates the lightening of hair by breaking down melanin. However, its use raises environmental and safety considerations:
Environmental Impact
- Water Pollution: Ammonium Persulfate is water-soluble and can persist in aquatic environments if discharged. It may pose risks to aquatic organisms due to its oxidative properties, potentially disrupting ecosystems.
- Carbon Footprint: The production of Ammonium Persulfate involves energy-intensive processes, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Its synthesis from ammonia and sulfuric acid typically relies on non-renewable resources.
Sustainability
The sustainability of Ammonium Persulfate depends on its production methods and disposal practices.
- Raw Materials: Typically derived from ammonia and sulfuric acid, Ammonium Persulfate is not renewable unless synthesized using greener methods or bio-based precursors.
- Energy Use: Manufacturing requires significant energy input for oxidation processes. Cleaner energy sources could reduce its environmental footprint.
- End-of-Life Impact: Ammonium Persulfate decomposes into sulfate ions and ammonia in the environment. While it does not bioaccumulate, its oxidative nature can impact local ecosystems.
Biodegradability and Toxicity
Ammonium Persulfate breaks down into simpler compounds but may cause localized toxicity due to its strong oxidizing properties.
Ammonia Toxicity: Decomposition releases ammonia, which can be toxic to aquatic life in high concentrations and contribute to eutrophication in water bodies.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
There are sustainable alternatives available that can replace Ammonium Persulfate in some cosmetic formulations:
- Hydrogen Peroxide: A less persistent oxidizing agent that decomposes into water and oxygen, reducing environmental impact.
- Plant-Based Enzymes: Natural enzymes like laccase can be used for oxidation processes in hair bleaching with lower ecological risks.
- Non-Oxidative Systems: Reformulating with non-oxidative colorants or lighteners can reduce reliance on strong oxidizers.
Alternative of Ammonium Persulfate and Comparative Analysis
Given below is the list of alternative ingredients that can be used in place of Ammonium Persulfate in cosmetic formulations:
- Potassium Persulfate
- Sodium Persulfate
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Sodium Metabisulfite
- Sodium Percarbonate
Comparative analysis of Ammonium Persulfate alternative ingredients:
| Ingredients | Strengths | Limitations | Efficacy | Cost | Stability | Compatibility | Safety |
| Potassium Persulfate | Strong oxidizing agent used in hair bleaches and lighteners Effective at decolorizing hair by oxidizing pigments Similar efficacy to ammonium persulfate with slightly different solubility Widely used and well-studied in cosmetic formulations | Potential respiratory sensitizer and irritant Requires thorough rinsing after use Not suitable for leave-on products | High as an oxidizing agent in hair lightening | Moderate | High (stable in powder form) | Good in alkaline hair bleaching formulations | Safe for brief, discontinuous use with rinsing; potential allergen |
| Sodium Persulfate | Powerful oxidizing agent for hair bleaching and lightening Effective in removing hair color pigments Stable and widely used in cosmetic hair products | Can cause skin and respiratory irritation Requires thorough rinsing after application Not recommended for leave-on formulations | High as an oxidizing and bleaching agent | Moderate | High (stable in powder form) | Compatible with alkaline hair bleaching systems | Safe with proper use; potential irritant and sensitizer |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Common oxidizing agent used in hair bleaching Effective at breaking down melanin pigments Liquid form allows easy formulation control Widely available and cost-effective | Can cause hair and scalp damage if overused Unstable, requires careful storage and formulation Potential skin irritation and sensitivity | High as a bleaching and oxidizing agent | Low | Low to moderate (decomposes over time) | Compatible with alkaline hair bleaching formulations | Safe when used properly; can be irritating |
| Sodium Metabisulfite | Used as a reducing agent and antioxidant in cosmetic formulations Can act as a preservative and stabilizer Helps control oxidation reactions in hair products | Less effective as a primary oxidizing agent Potential allergen and irritant for sensitive individuals | Moderate as a stabilizer and antioxidant | Low | High | Good in combination with other oxidizers | Generally safe but may cause sensitivity |
| Sodium Percarbonate | Solid source of hydrogen peroxide and soda ash Used as a bleaching and cleaning agent Releases oxygen upon dissolution, aiding oxidation | Less commonly used in cosmetics directly Requires formulation expertise to control release Potential irritant if misused | Moderate to high as a bleaching agent | Moderate | High (stable as a solid) | Compatible with alkaline formulations | Safe with proper formulation controls |
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