TeraBond™ strengthens disulfide bonds, reduces porosity, smooths the cuticle, and locks in moisture which helps consumers achieve healthier, more resilient hair. Formulating with TeraBond is simple, but there are a few key steps to ensure you get the best performance from this bond-repair powerhouse.
FAQ Quick Links:
- Is TeraBond heat-sensitive?
- What is the use level of TeraBond?
- Can I use TeraBond in a spray?
- Can TeraBond be used in leave-on products?
- Can TeraBond be used in formulas in conjunction with keratin?
1. Choose the Right Base
TeraBond is water-soluble and works across a wide range of haircare formats, from shampoos and conditioners to masks, serums, and color-care systems. Decide early whether your product will be a rinse-off (like a shampoo or mask) or a leave-in (like a serum or cream), as this will influence concentration and supporting ingredients.
TeraBond should be dissolved into the water before continuing with any other ingredients in your formula, no matter the base. This can be done at room temperature, but the rate of dissolution can be increased by heating the water.
2. Adjust the pH
TeraBond performs best in a pH range of 3.5–5.5, aligning with the natural acidity of the hair and scalp. This helps maximize bond formation and ensure consumer comfort. TeraBond is inherently acidic, with a pH around 3.0 in water. You can adjust the pH of your formula up with a basic buffer at the beginning of the batch directly after adding TeraBond to water, or at the end of the batch after it has been fully mixed and cooled. Regardless, a final pH check at the end of the batch is wise to ensure the formula is within range.
3. Optimize Concentration
Even at low use levels, TeraBond delivers visible repair. The recommended use level is 1-8.5%. For leave-on products, use a lower amount and combine with light emollients or humectants for lasting protection. In rinse-off products, use a higher amount and pair with conditioning agents for slip and softness.
At higher use levels, TeraBond can decrease viscosity. If you’re targeting a formula with more body, it is recommended to utilize thickeners and solid emollients (e.g. fatty alcohols or butters) and to pH adjust the formula at the beginning of the batch.
FAQ
Is TeraBond heat-sensitive?
No. TeraBond can be heated to incorporate into a multitude of formats.
What is the use level of TeraBond?
TeraBond can be used from 1-8.5%
Can I use TeraBond in a spray?
TeraBond is acidic and can be irritating to mucus membranes. It can however be used in a spray format if the pH of the formula is adjusted high enough to reduce irritation. It is not recommended to use TeraBond in a fine mist format.
Can TeraBond be used in leave-on products?
Yes, TeraBond can be used in leave-on products. You can see examples of TeraBond formulas in our .
Can TeraBond be used in formulas in conjunction with keratin?
TeraBond can be used in conjunction with keratin for dual action hair repair. Keep in mind the formula pH should be adjusted high enough to prevent denaturation of the keratin protein.