THIOCARE H

Thiocare H is primarily used in the cosmetic and personal-care industry, especially in hair-care and hair-removal (depilatory) formulations. 
Thiocare H is used as a depilatory agent (hair-removal product), where it helps to break down hair keratin bonds for removal. 
Thiocare H is used as an active ingredient in formulations for hair straightening, relaxing, or permanent waving — where thioglycolates are used to reduce disulfide bonds in hair’s keratin structure, allowing reshaping. 

CAS Number: 65208‑41‑5 and 29820‑13‑1 
EC Number: 249‑881‑5
INCI / Chemical Name: Calcium Thioglycolate Trihydrate (alkaline calcium thioglycolate)
Chemical formula (as trihydrate): approximately C₂H₈CaO₅S · 3H₂O 
Molecular weight: ~ 184.2 g/mol

SYNONYMS:
Thioglycolic acid ammonium salt, Ammonium mercaptoacetate, Azanium 2‑sulfanylacetate, Calcium Thioglycolate Hydroxide (CAS 29820‑13‑1 , 65208‑41‑5, EC 249‑881‑5), Calcium thioglycolate, Acetic acid, mercapto-, calcium salt (2:1) trihydrate, Calcium mercaptoacetate trihydrate, 2‑Sulfanylacetate, calcium, trihydrate, Calcium thioglycollate trihydrate, Calcium sulphidoacetate, Calcium thioglycolate trihydrate, Calcium thioglycolate hydroxide, Thioglycolic acid calcium salt (1:1) trihydrate

Thiocare H is a high-purity form of calcium thioglycolate (calcium thioglycolate trihydrate), used primarily as a thioglycolate salt. 
Thiocare H's CAS numbers are given as 29820-13-1 (or alternatively the (pre-)registered salt under CAS 65208-41-5). 
In appearance, Thiocare H is a white, fine-grained powder with a characteristic odor. 

Chemically, Thiocare H contains approximately 50 % (w/w) of the active reducing agent, calculated as free thioglycolic acid (TGA). The rest of Thiocare H corresponds to the salt (calcium thioglycolate trihydrate) matrix.
The product known commercially as Thiocare H is identified chemically as the calcium salt of thioglycolic acid, typically in its trihydrate form.

According to partner and supplier documentation, Thiocare H has the following identifiers: CAS numbers 29820‑13‑1 and 65208‑41‑5 and the EC (EINECS) number 249‑881‑5.
The INCI name of Thiocare H is given as Calcium Thioglycolate Hydroxide.

Thiocare H offers a comprehensive portfolio of active ingredients for formulating hair products, regardless of whether they are for permanent waving, straightening, or hair removal.
Different hair structures require individual solutions to maintain long-lasting results.

Thiocare H has a broad portfolio of high-performance active ingredients and offers complete formulation versatility to meet customer needs.
Hair straightening requires the application of active ingredients that soften the hair structure.
Thiocare H products offer a wide variety of active ingredients for the safe formulation of hair straightening products.

The preferred method for painless body hair removal is depilation with creams.
Thiocare H solutions offer high-performance active ingredients for effective and reliable hair removal products.
Thiocare H solutions deliver high performance actives for effective and reliable depilation products.

Thiocare H is a brand line of high-performance thioglycolate-based active ingredients produced by Bruno Bock Holding GmbH & Co. KG.
These products are specifically developed for cosmetic and industrial hair treatment applications, including permanent waving, hair straightening, and hair removal (depilation).

Thiocare H is a colorless to faintly pink liquid with a strong, characteristic odor.
Thiocare H is typically supplied as a hygroscopic white powder, often in a trihydrate form.
Similar to ammonium thioglycolate, Thiocare H acts as a reducing agent capable of breaking disulfide bonds, but it is often preferred in formulations requiring slower reactivity or different buffering characteristics.

Thiocare H has “the largest portfolio of high‑performance active ingredients to straighten, perm or remove hair long‑lastingly” and designed to give formulation versatility for virgin, processed or sensitised hair.
In other words, rather than a single chemical, “Thiocare H” is the brand umbrella under which several thioglycolate‑based active ingredients are offered for cosmetic hair‑care applications (straightening, waving, depilation).

The Thiocare H actives (such as Ammonium Thioglycolate, Calcium Thioglycolate) are used in hair‑care formulations: permanent waving, hair straightening (relaxers), depilatory (hair removal) products.
Thiocare H is the largest portfolio of high performance active ingredients to straighten, perm or remove hair long-lastingly.

For hair to form a new shape, Thiocare H is required to soften the ceratin structure of the hair so that the hair can assume the new shape.
In the late 1930s Dr. Ralph Evans, the founder of Evans Chemetics, discovered that thioglycolic acid and its salts are highly efficient reagents for this purpose.

For decades Thiocare H products are key ingredients in formulations for permanent waves, hair straighteners or depilatories.
The Thiocare H line provides the most comprehensive portfolio of active ingredients for the formulation of hair forming products independent of whether it is for permanent waving, straightening or removing hair.

USES and APPLICATIONS of THIOCARE H:
Thiocare H is primarily used in the cosmetic and personal-care industry, especially in hair-care and hair-removal (depilatory) formulations. 
More specifically: Thiocare H is used as a depilatory agent (hair-removal product), where it helps to break down hair keratin bonds for removal. 
Thiocare H is used as an active ingredient in formulations for hair straightening, relaxing, or permanent waving — where thioglycolates are used to reduce disulfide bonds in hair’s keratin structure, allowing reshaping. 

Thiocare H is used as a softening agent (hair softening) and for wave enhancement (in wave/permanent wave products) when combined with other formulation components. 
Thus, Thiocare H belongs to a broader portfolio of active ingredients under the Thiocare “H” line — which provides reagents for permanent waves, straighteners, and depilatories. 

Thiocare H is a high‑purity calcium thioglycolate trihydrate salt (CAS 29820‑13‑1 / 65208‑41‑5, EC 249‑881‑5) designed for cosmetic applications including depilation and hair straightening.
As a white powder form with a content ≥ 99% and pH around 11‑12 in 5% solution, Thiocare H provides a strong hair‑modifying active via thioglycolate chemistry.

Benefits of Thiocare H include controlled reactivity, high purity for formulation consistency, and versatility in hair‑care systems.
However, due to its active chemistry and alkalinity, Thiocare H must be handled with appropriate safety measures — protective equipment, proper storage, formulation controls, and regulatory compliance — to ensure safe usage.

Thiocare H is used mainly in cosmetic industry for depilatory formulations.
Thiocare H is produced for the cosmetic industry, primarily for hair‑care applications.

The active calcium thioglycolate compound is used as a hair removal agent (depilatory) and also in hair‑straightening, relaxing or waving systems under the broader Thiocare H brand line.

The mechanism of action is typical for thioglycolate salts: the mercapto (–SH) group of the thioglycolate anion is able to cleave or reduce the disulfide bonds (–S–S–) in keratin (hair protein), thereby weakening the hair structure and enabling removal or reshaping of the hair fibre.
(This is consistent with general knowledge of thioglycolic acid derivatives.)

The “99%” designation indicates the high purity (≥ 99 % w/w content of the Ca‑thioglycolate trihydrate specification) in the product.
Thiocare H functions primarily as a reducing agent: the thiol (–SH) group attacks the disulfide bonds (–S–S–) in keratin proteins, temporarily breaking them and allowing hair fibers to be reshaped.

This mechanism underlies the permanent waving or straightening effects seen in cosmetic products.
Its high water solubility and relatively low lipophilicity make Thiocare H easy to formulate into aqueous cosmetic systems, and its neutral to slightly alkaline pH (around 6 in concentrated solutions) improves handling safety compared to stronger alkaline compounds.

Thiocare H is widely used in depilatory products where calcium-based salts provide a milder, more controlled reaction with hair keratin.
Thiocare H actives offer multiple advantages.
They enable effective hair reshaping or removal at moderate pH levels, improving consumer and operator safety.

They also provide reliable performance across a range of hair types, and their chemistry allows formulation flexibility.
In addition, these compounds are highly reactive towards sulfur-containing bonds in proteins, ensuring predictable and reproducible results in hair care applications.

Thiocare H'actives combine reducing power, solubility, and controlled reactivity to provide formulators with reliable ingredients for permanent waving, hair straightening, and depilatory applications.
Thiocare H acts as a restructuring agent.

The unique reducing properties of the SH-group open the sulfur bridges in the keratine structure of the hair.
If this is done when the hair is wrapped around hair rollers, the hair structure is weakened.

After rinsing, the sulfur bridges are reconnected with an oxidizing chemical like hydrogenperoxide and the hair fiber gets Thiocare H's desired curled shape.
Thiocare H properties allow the use in hair perms as well as in hair straighteners.

-Hair Care uses of Thiocare H:
*Perm
Different hair structures require individual solutions for perming hair long lastingly.
Thiocare H has the largest portfolio of high performance active ingredients that provides full formulation versatility for our customers.

*Straightener
Permanent straightening of hair typically requires the application of active ingredients that soften the hair structure.
Thiocare H products deliver a wide assortment of active ingredients for the formulation of hair straighteners.

*Depilatory
The preferred way for pain free removal of body hair is depilation with creams.

BENEFITS / ADVANTAGES of THIOCARE H:
Using Thiocare H in suitable formulations offers the following advantages:
*High purity / high active content — Thiocare H ensures reliable performance (effective hair removal or hair restructuring) because of the high concentration of thioglycolate active component.

*Effective depilatory and hair-reshaping activity — Thiocare H is used as calcium thioglycolate, it effectively reduces disulfide bonds in keratin, enabling hair removal, straightening, or reshaping.

*Good solubility and manageable handling — as a water-soluble powder with known solubility profile, Thiocare H can be formulated into aqueous or other cosmetic bases for hair treatments.

*Low heavy-metal impurities / high specification quality — with very low levels of iron, arsenic, lead, copper, etc., reducing risks of contamination or toxicity from trace metals.

*Stability under proper storage — with a shelf life (~25 months) when stored sealed and dry, enabling long-term storage and supply chain reliability.

*Additionally, because Thiocare H is part of a regulated and certified product line (e.g. under European REACH, OECD certification, etc.), it enjoys compliance for cosmetic use under regulatory frameworks. 

KEY NOTES & LIMITATIONS / CONSIDERATIONS of THIOCARE H:
Thiocare H is not simply thioglycolic acid — it is a salt (calcium thioglycolate trihydrate), which requires formulation conversion/adjustment. 
Thiocare H is about half the weight of the salt form. 
Thus, formulation must account for that when calculating effective thioglycolate concentration.

Because of the chemical nature (thioglycolate, sulfhydryl chemistry), products containing Thiocare H are likely to have strong odor (sulfur-like), typical of thiols/mercaptans. 
Indeed, in similar thioglycolate-based products the odor is often described as “sulfur-like”. 

Being a reducing agent (thiol), it may be sensitive to oxidation over time (especially if exposed to air and moisture) — as noted in the stability data: in opened containers, oxidation to dithiodiglycolate leads to gradual decrease in active content. 

Handling & formulation must consider the high alkalinity when dissolved (pH ~ 11–12 for 5 % solution), which may require pH buffering or careful formulation to avoid skin irritation in cosmetic use.

FUNCTIONS of THIOCARE H:
*Hair Removal Agent

LABELING CLAIMS of THIOCARE H:
*Biodegradable

BENEFIT CLAIMS of THIOCARE H:
*Depilatory, 
*Hair Straightening, 
*Softening, 
*Wave Enhancement

BENEFIT of THIOCARE H:
Claims of these substances include: depilatory, hair‑straightening, softening, wave‑enhancement.
The underlying chemical mechanism: 
Thioglycolate ions (HS–CH₂–COO⁻) act as reducing agents, breaking disulfide bonds (–S–S–) in keratin structures in hair, thereby allowing reshaping of hair geometry (straightening or curling) or facilitating removal of hair fibres in depilation.

These actives allow formulators to develop cosmetics that alter hair structure (e.g., straighteners) or enable hair removal with relatively high performance.
They are sold in grades suitable for cosmetic manufacture (e.g., “INCI Name: Ammonium Thioglycolate”, “INCI Name: Calcium Thioglycolate Hydroxide”).

The Thiocare H brand comprises a series of thioglycolate‑based active ingredients used in hair‑care applications (straightening, waving, depilation).
Two representative substances are Ammonium Thioglycolate (CAS 5421‑46‑5 / EC 226‑540‑9) and Calcium Thioglycolate Hydroxide (CAS 29820‑13‑1 / 65208‑41‑5; EC 249‑881‑5).

These substances function primarily by reducing disulfide bonds in hair keratin (enabling structural modification) or by acting as depilatory agents (hair removal).
Physicochemical data show good water solubility (for the ammonium salt) and hygroscopic solid powder nature (for the calcium salt).

Safety‑wise, both are corrosive to metals, sensitising to skin, and potentially toxic if swallowed; special handling precautions are required.
For cosmetic formulators, these actives offer performance versatility but must be used with caution, proper manufacturing protocols and regulatory compliance.

PROPERTIES, BENEFITS & CHARACTERISTICS of THIOCARE H:
Because of its thioglycolate function (–SH group) combined with the calcium salt form, this material offers several advantages in cosmetic use:
The calcium salt form tends to provide a controlled reactivity (compared to more aggressive salts) which is beneficial in depilatory or hair‑relaxing formulations that require predictable reaction times and milder processing.

The high purity (99%) minimizes impurities which might affect skin irritation or formulation stability.
The powder form allows formulators to incorporate the active into product systems (e.g., creams, gels, powders, leave‑on or rinse‑off formats) with predictable performance.

The alkaline pH range (approx. pH 11‑12 in 5% solution) indicates strong activity; the form must be designed into a system that manages pH and exposure safely for hair/skin use.
As part of the Thiocare H line, the material is marketed for depilation (“hair removal”) and hair‑straightening/ softening/ wave‑enhancement benefit claims.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of THIOCARE H:
Appearance: White, fine‑grained powder. 
Odor: Characteristic (likely sulfur‑mercaptan‑type) 
pH: For a 5% solution, pH is about 11–12 (very alkaline) 
Reducing Agent Content: When calculated as Thioglycolic Acid (TGA), it's about 49.5–50.0% w/w. 
Solubility in Water: ~ 63 g/L at 20 °C; ~ 68 g/L at 25 °C 
Storage / Stability: Because thioglycolate is a reducing agent, it is sensitive to oxidation
CAS No.: 65208‑41‑5 and 29820‑13‑1 
EC No.: 249‑881‑5

INCI / Chemical Name: Calcium Thioglycolate Trihydrate (alkaline calcium thioglycolate)
Chemical formula (as trihydrate): approximately C₂H₈CaO₅S · 3H₂O 
Molecular weight: ~ 184.2 g/mol
EC Number: 249‑881‑5
CAS Number: 29820‑13‑1 (also registered as trihydrate under CAS 65208‑41‑5)
Chemical Formula (as trihydrate): approximately C₂H₈CaO₅S · 3H₂O
Molecular Weight: ~184.2 g/mol (per technical data sheet)

Appearance: White, fine-grained powder
Odor: Characteristic odor; slight mercaptan/thiol‑like odor
Bulk Density: ~0.85 g/cm³ (typical)
Content/Purity: “Content as CaTG × 3H₂O” ≥ 99.0% w/w (CaTG = calcium thioglycolate trihydrate)
Content Calculated as Thioglycolic Acid (TGA): ~49.5–50.0% w/w
pH: 11–12 (5% solution, electrometric, per specification sheet)
Solubility (Water): ~63 g/L at 20 °C; ~68 g/L at 25 °C (technical data sheet)
Solubility (Other Source): 70 g/L at 25 °C (Thermo Scientific)

Solubility (Organic Solvents): Very slightly soluble in alcohol and chloroform; practically insoluble in ether, petroleum ether, benzene
Melting/Decomposition: 270–280 °C (Thermo Scientific); 
decomposes around 250 °C (NTP)
Chemical Behavior: Alkaline calcium salt (thioglycolate) in trihydrate form; reducing agent; 
forms deep red complex with iron due to iron-thioglycolate complex; 
thiol (–SH) functionality allows reducing behavior and complex formation with trace metals
Stability/Sensitivity: May oxidize over time if exposed to air/oxygen; 
water content in trihydrate form affects physical form depending on moisture/humidity conditions

FIRST AID MEASURES of THIOCARE H:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation: 
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact: 
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. 
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact: 
Rinse out with plenty of water. 
Call in ophthalmologist. 
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing: 
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most). 
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of THIOCARE H:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains. 
Collect, bind, and pump off spills. 
Observe possible material restrictions. 
Take up dry. 
Dispose of properly. 
Clean up affected area.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of THIOCARE H:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 
Foam 
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of THIOCARE H:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection. 
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A 
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of THIOCARE H:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed. 
Dry.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of THIOCARE H:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available