Ashland has introduced n-hance ccg 75, a next-generation cationic guar designed to deliver high-performance conditioning while maintaining the optical clarity increasingly demanded in transparent shampoos, facial cleansers and body washes.
Based on guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, the ingredient enables formulators to combine medium- to high-level conditioning with crystal-clear aesthetics in sulfate-free and surfactant-based systems. Unlike conventional cationic guars that can cloud formulations as surfactant levels increase, n-hance ccg 75 maintains—or even improves—transparency under higher surfactant loads, allowing brands to create lightweight, visually clean products without compromising performance.
The polymer is compatible with anionic, amphoteric, nonionic and sulfate-free surfactant systems and works alongside existing conditioning agents, including polyquaterniums, to enhance wet glide, detangling and overall hair feel while minimizing buildup. At recommended use levels of 0.2% to 0.3%, testing showed reduced combing forces on both virgin and damaged hair, with sensory evaluations highlighting improved wet and dry conditioning and a lightweight finish.
Positioned for a broad range of rinse-off and leave-on applications—including clear shampoos, conditioners, styling products, shower gels and facial cleansers—the ingredient is also cold-processable, simplifying formulation and manufacturing.
Ashland is also emphasizing the material's sustainability profile. The ingredient is 85% natural origin with an 84% natural carbon rating under ISO 16128, is vegan suitable, inherently biodegradable according to OECD methods, non-ecotoxic and is not classified as a microplastic under the EU's 2023/2055 regulation. It is also part of the company's Responsibly Sourced Guar program.
As consumer demand continues to favor transparent, minimalist formulations with strong sustainability credentials, n-hance ccg 75 reflects the industry's push toward multifunctional ingredients that combine premium aesthetics, clean-label positioning and high-performance conditioning in a single solution.
