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Moumoujus

POLYQUATERNIUM-15.

Avoid CAS 35429-19-7 / 67504-24-9 / ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING, HAIR FIXING

Polyquaternium-15 is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative primarily used to inhibit microbial growth in cosmetic formulations. While it can also act as a surfactant and offer conditioning properties, its use is severely restricted or banned in many regions due to significant safety concerns related to its formaldehyde content and potential toxicity.

Summary

Preservative Antimicrobial Agent Surfactant Antistatic Agent Emulsifier Film-forming Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

Polyquaternium-15 functions as an antimicrobial agent and preservative by slowly releasing formaldehyde, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of microorganisms. Additionally, it serves as a surfactant. As a general polyquaternium, it is observed to contribute to moisturizing, conditioning, film-forming, and protective layer properties on skin and hair, and can aid in emulsion stabilization.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

0.2%

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed Polyquaternium-15 safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 0.2%, based on findings that it was generally not a sensitizer in most animal and human studies at this level. This assessment, however, focused on safety rather than demonstrating efficacy for skin benefits.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.2%
Red flag below
0.2%

Polyquaternium-15 is classified as a 'red flag' ingredient primarily due to its formaldehyde-releasing mechanism and associated health risks. It has been banned from cosmetic products in the European Union since 2017 and will be prohibited in California starting January 1, 2025, underscoring significant regulatory and safety concerns.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The stability of Polyquaternium-15 is significantly compromised at low pH values, where it undergoes acid hydrolysis, leading to an increased release of formaldehyde.

Conflicts

  • Anionic polymers
  • Anionic surfactants

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.2%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

While the CIR Expert Panel found Polyquaternium-15 safe up to 0.2%, the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has raised critical concerns, classifying it as a CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or toxic for Reproduction) substance, specifically toxic to reproduction (Category 2, GHS). It is a recognized human skin toxicant and allergen, capable of causing allergic contact dermatitis, and is a possible eye irritant. Consequently, its use in cosmetic products has been banned in the European Union since 2017 and in California from 2025.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Given its classification as a CMR substance, high risk for sensitization and irritation, and its prohibition in major regulatory markets, Polyquaternium-15 is not recommended and should be avoided in precision skincare formulations.

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