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Moumoujus

POLYQUATERNIUM-5.

Valuable CAS 26006-22-4 / ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING

Polyquaternium-5 is a cationic polymer engineered to enhance the sensory experience of skincare. It excels at delivering exceptional lubrication and slip, resulting in a noticeably softer and less tight skin feel. This ingredient also acts as a conditioning and film-forming agent for both skin and hair.

Summary

Antistatic Film-forming Hair conditioning Skin conditioning Lubricant Sensory modifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a cationic polymer, Polyquaternium-5 carries a positive electrical charge, enabling it to adhere effectively to the naturally negatively charged surfaces of skin and hair. This interaction facilitates the formation of a delicate, protective film on the skin's surface, which in turn helps to reduce transepidermal water loss and offer a degree of protection against environmental stressors. Additionally, some polyquaterniums, including this one, can function as humectants, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–0.25%
Optimal

0.1-0.25%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations at concentrations between 0.1% and 0.25% demonstrated remarkable improvements in skin and hair product lubrication and slip. Users reported an enhanced application experience and a significant reduction in the sensation of tight skin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The provided research data does not contain specific information regarding the 'dusting' of Polyquaternium-5, nor does it identify any associated dusting thresholds or red-flag percentages for this ingredient. Therefore, we cannot assess its propensity for being commonly dusted.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability is maintained within a pH range of 3.0 to 7.0, ensuring formulation integrity.

Conflicts

  • Anionic surfactants: Due to opposing electrical charges, mixing with anionic surfactants can lead to complex formation, potentially affecting product stability and performance.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has generally deemed the Polyquaternium class of ingredients safe for cosmetic use. While Polyquaternium-5 itself is considered safe as used, specific individual safety assessment data, including a maximum safe concentration, were not explicitly detailed in the provided literature for this particular compound.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Polyquaternium-5 is a valuable conditioning and sensory-enhancing ingredient, offering significant lubrication and a reduced tight skin feel within its effective concentration range of 0.1% to 0.25%, with broad skin compatibility and a low irritancy profile.

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