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Moumoujus

POLYQUATERNIUM-10.

Valuable CAS 81859-24-7 / 53568-66-4 / 54351-50-7 / 55353-19-0 / 68610-92-4 / 81859-24-7 / ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING

POLYQUATERNIUM-10 is a cellulose-derived polymer that excels in enhancing product texture and delivering significant conditioning benefits to the skin. It forms a protective, moisture-retaining film, contributing to improved hydration and a soft, supple feel.

Summary

Antistatic Film-forming Conditioning Thickening

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as a cationic conditioning agent, leveraging its positive charge to adsorb onto the proteinaceous surfaces of the skin. It attracts ambient moisture, establishing a thin, continuous film that both hydrates and creates a protective barrier against transepidermal water loss. Furthermore, it exhibits surfactant properties, aiding in the removal of impurities, and crucially, can mitigate potential irritation from other cleansing agents.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.05–0.3%
Optimal

0.2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Significantly boosts product viscosity and slip, imparting a rich, elegant feel to skincare formulations.
  2. 02 Increases skin hydration and establishes a protective layer that effectively retains moisture in skincare products.
  3. 03 Demonstrated low irritation/sensitization potential in human testing and can mitigate irritation caused by anionic surfactants when used in cleansers.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
5%

While generally well-tolerated at typical cosmetic concentrations, POLYQUATERNIUM-10 has been shown to cause mild skin and eye irritation at concentrations reaching 5%. This indicates a clear concentration-dependent safety profile, not an issue of insufficient dosage for efficacy.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

POLYQUATERNIUM-10 maintains stability across a broad pH range of 4 to 8, with optimal performance typically observed between pH 4 and 6. Elevated pH levels may, however, reduce its high water solubility due to the presence of hydroxyl groups.

Synergies

  • Non-ionic surfactants
  • Amphoteric surfactants

Conflicts

  • Anionic surfactants (specifically at concentrations above 1%, which can lead to flocculation)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
2%
Sensitization risk Low

Extensively evaluated by the CIR, POLYQUATERNIUM-10 is deemed safe for cosmetic applications at current usage levels. It is considered entirely safe and non-irritating at concentrations up to 2%, with human testing confirming low irritation and sensitization potential. However, it is important to note that concentrations of 5% are associated with mild irritation to skin and eyes.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

POLYQUATERNIUM-10 is a valuable conditioning polymer that significantly enhances skin hydration, feel, and product formulation, with a strong safety profile at effective concentrations.

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