INCI Names Polyquaternium-7
CAS Number 26590-05-6
Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic, hydrophilic quaternary ammonium compound with a cationic nature and a stable chemical structure. In its liquid form, it appears as a clear or pale yellow solution. It is an excellent detangler, providing slip for easier wet-combing while also enhancing softness and shine in dry hair.
Purpose
Polyquaternium-7 possesses antistatic properties that help reduce static electricity in hair, minimizing frizz and flyaways. Its film-forming ability creates a lightweight protective layer that enhances moisture retention and smoothness. As a hair conditioning agent, it improves softness, manageability, and detangling, making hair easier to comb.
Origin
Polyquaternium-7 is a quaternized copolymer composed of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Polyquaternium-7 |
| Type | Synthetic polymer |
| Source | Derived from acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride |
| PH | 6.5–8.5 |
| Color | Clear to slightly yellow |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic |
| Physical state | Liquid |
| Concentration | 0.5%–5% |
| Boiling Point | greater than 100°C |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, insoluble in oils |
Highly Cationic Nature
Polyquaternium-7 has a strong affinity for negatively charged surfaces such as hair and skin, allowing for superior conditioning. It helps neutralize static electricity, reducing frizz and flyaways in hair care formulations.
Superior Slip & Detangling
It reduces friction between hair strands, making it easier to comb through wet or dry hair. By preventing breakage, it minimizes mechanical damage during brushing or styling.
Film-Forming Ability
This polymer creates a lightweight, flexible film over hair and skin that enhances smoothness and hydration. It helps retain moisture, making it beneficial for dry and damaged hair. It also improves skin texture by leaving a soft and silky feel without greasiness.
Non-Greasy Moisturization
Unlike oils, Polyquaternium-7 provides hydration without making the hair or skin feel greasy. This makes it ideal for lightweight formulations like leave-in conditioners and serums.
Compatible with Anionic Surfactants
Unlike many cationic conditioning agents, Polyquaternium-7 remains stable when mixed with anionic surfactants. It is commonly used in sulfate-based and sulfate-free shampoos without causing separation or instability.
Enhanced Wet & Dry Combability
It improves the manageability of hair both when wet and after drying. By maintaining smoothness and shine, it helps prevent a rough or frizzy appearance.
Anti-Static Properties
Minimizing static build-up, Polyquaternium-7 makes hair appear smoother and more polished. This is particularly beneficial in dry climates or winter months when static is more prevalent.
Cold-Process Friendly
Polyquaternium-7 can be added to formulations without the need for heating, simplifying production and reducing costs. It is compatible with a wide range of ingredients, making it easy to incorporate into various personal care products.
Transparent in Formulations
It does not affect the clarity of water-based products, making it ideal for clear shampoos, gels, and serums. This property helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of transparent or translucent cosmetic formulations.
Mild & Non-Irritating
Well-tolerated by most skin and hair types, including sensitive skin, Polyquaternium-7 is suitable for both leave-on and rinse-off applications without causing irritation or buildup.
Applications of Polyquaternium-7
Hair Care Products
Polyquaternium-7 is widely used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks due to its excellent conditioning and detangling properties. It enhances hair softness, improves manageability, and reduces frizz by forming a lightweight film on the hair shaft. Leave-in conditioners and styling products also benefit from its anti-static and moisture-retaining properties, helping to keep hair smooth and tangle-free.
Skincare Products
In lotions, creams, and moisturizers, Polyquaternium-7 acts as a humectant and film-former, providing hydration without a greasy feel. It enhances the spreadability of formulations, ensuring even application while leaving the skin soft and silky. It is also used in facial cleansers and body washes to prevent dryness caused by surfactants.
Personal Cleansing Products
As a conditioning agent in body washes, hand soaps, and shower gels, Polyquaternium-7 helps counteract the drying effects of surfactants, leaving the skin feeling smooth and moisturized. It also improves foam stability and enhances the overall sensory feel of cleansing products.
Styling and Grooming Products
Hair mousses, gels, and styling creams incorporate Polyquaternium-7 to provide a flexible hold while maintaining hair softness. Its anti-static properties help in taming flyaways, while its film-forming ability enhances shine and texture.
Men’s Grooming Products
It is commonly found in beard conditioners, aftershaves, and shaving gels, where it provides a smooth application, hydrates the skin, and reduces irritation caused by shaving.
Sun Care and After-Sun Products
Used in sunscreens and after-sun lotions, Polyquaternium-7 improves the spreadability of the product and forms a hydrating barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss from sun exposure.
Baby Care Products
Due to its mild and non-irritating nature, it is included in baby shampoos, washes, and lotions to provide gentle conditioning and prevent dryness.
Hand Sanitizers and Hygiene Products
In alcohol-based hand sanitizers, Polyquaternium-7 helps counteract the drying effects of alcohol while leaving a non-sticky, moisturized feel on the skin. It is also used in antibacterial wipes and hygiene products to enhance skin comfort.
