Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

POLYQUATERNIUM-64.

Valuable CAS - / HAIR CONDITIONING

Polyquaternium-64 is a synthetic, water-soluble polymer engineered to structurally mimic natural skin surface lipids. It functions as a protective film-former, precisely binding to both skin and hair to enhance moisture retention and reinforce natural barrier integrity.

Film-forming Moisture retention Hair conditioning Skin barrier support Antistatic agent

Science

This cationic polymer is designed with a structural resemblance to natural skin phospholipids. Upon application, it forms a cohesive, protective gel layer on the stratum corneum and hair fibers. This barrier actively binds moisture and other essential components, effectively preventing transepidermal water loss and stabilizing the skin's delicate lamellar structure, while also offering protection against harsh environmental factors and surfactants.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Studies reported in "Cosmetics & Toiletries" highlight Polyquaternium-64's significant efficacy on damaged hair. It was shown to improve moisture retention, reduce combing friction, enhance conditioning, and boost tensile strength, actively contributing to the restoration of healthy hair appearance through the formation of a protective, moisture-retaining gel layer.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Based on the available research, there is no indication that Polyquaternium-64 is a 'dusted' ingredient lacking scientific support for its reported benefits.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Polyquaternium-64 exhibits good stability, ensuring consistent performance within cosmetic formulations.

Conflicts

  • The solid form of Polyquaternium-64 may induce irritation to skin, eyes, and the respiratory system during handling, necessitating careful formulation practices.
  • As a cationic polymer, Polyquaternium-64 can complex with anionic surfactants. Suboptimal formulation in such combinations may lead to undesirable film formation or reduced efficacy.

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

While Polyquaternium-64 lacks a specific safety assessment from CIR or SCCS, EWG Skin Deep rates it as a low-hazard ingredient. This classification indicates minimal concerns regarding cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and general use restrictions. It is not present on EWG's lists of restricted or unacceptable ingredients. Its FDA status for direct cosmetic use is not explicitly defined, although other Polyquaternium variants have received approval as indirect food additives.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Polyquaternium-64 is a valuable polymeric ingredient for enhancing both skin and hair health, primarily through its ability to form a protective, moisture-retaining barrier and improve overall conditioning with low irritancy and comedogenicity.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…