Ammonium Hydroxide
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 1336-21-6, Ammonia water, Ammonia aqueous, Aquammonia, Ammonia, Aqua, Household ammonia, Monohydrate, Ammonia water 29%, Ammonium hydroxide ((NH4)(OH))
Synthetic
Not Clean
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Ammonia and Ammonium Hydroxide are safe as used in hair dyes and colors and safe in cosmetics applied directly to the skin in the present practices of use and concentration described in the safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating.
Solubility Exists only in solution
Formula
H5NO
Mol. Weight
35.05
CAS #
1336-21-6
Form
Powder
State
Ammonium hydroxide appears as a colorless aqueous solution. Concentration of ammonia ranges up to approximately 30%. Ammonia vapors (which arise from the solution) irritate the eyes.
Functions
Buffering
Denaturant
Stabilizes pH
Makes Alcohol Undrinkable
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Known since ancient times as aqueous ammonia solution; historically used in textile and leather processing. In modern cosmetics, developed as a pH buffer and alkalizing agent, though not traditionally applied to skincare.
EWG
6
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
ewg-6
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Mild Irritant
Concentration Guide
6%
0%8%
Reg. Limit
EU regulatory limit: 6%. NH3). Above 2%: Contains ammonia Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, Annex III (Restricted Substances), Entry 4.
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
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Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR