Ethanolamine Thioglycolate is widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry, particularly in hair care products. It serves as a key ingredient in hair relaxers and permanent wave solutions, where it acts as a reducing agent to break down the disulfide bonds in keratin, the protein structure of hair. This process allows for the reshaping of hair into either straight or curly forms, depending on the desired outcome.

In addition to its role in hair treatments, it is also utilized in depilatory creams, where it helps to weaken the structural integrity of hair proteins, making it easier to remove unwanted hair from the skin. Its effectiveness in breaking down keratin makes it a valuable component in formulations designed for hair removal.

Furthermore, Ethanolamine Thioglycolate is employed in some industrial applications, such as in the production of certain types of adhesives and coatings, where its chemical properties contribute to the desired texture and performance of the final product. Its versatility and effectiveness in altering protein structures make it a useful chemical in both personal care and industrial contexts.