Film Former
AMMONIUM CASEINATE
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
The ammonium salt of casein (milk protein). A food-grade conditioning ingredient with an excellent safety record — not vegan.
Ammonium caseinate (CAS 9005-42-9) is the ammonium salt of casein, the dominant protein fraction in milk. It is produced by neutralizing casein with ammonia and is used as a film former, hair and skin conditioning agent, and emulsion stabilizer in cosmetics. It has extensive food-grade (E-number-adjacent) safety data and long use history. Main considerations are its dairy origin (incompatible with vegan positioning), potential allergy in highly milk-allergic users, and the need for adequate preservation because protein substrates support microbial growth. No GHS hazards at cosmetic concentrations.
Function
Skin benefits
- Milk-protein-derived film former and conditioning agent
- Smooth, conditioning deposit on hair and skin
- Decades of food-grade safety precedent
Known concerns
- Dairy-origin; not suitable for vegan formulations
- Milk allergy risk for highly allergic users
- Potential microbial growth requires adequate preservation
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related film formers
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.