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POLYQUATERNIUM-7.

Valuable CAS 26590-05-6 / ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING

Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic, cationic copolymer recognized for its exceptional conditioning and film-forming properties. It effectively hydrates the skin by attracting and binding water, while simultaneously reducing transepidermal water loss to enhance suppleness and smoothness.

Summary

Antistatic Film forming Conditioning agent Emollient Humectant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This hydrophilic copolymer forms a thin, non-sticky, and breathable film on the skin's surface. This film acts as a moisture barrier, significantly reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and contributing to enhanced hydration. Its emollient properties are derived from interactions with keratin proteins in the stratum corneum, which helps soften skin and support natural exfoliation. The ingredient's positive charge also neutralizes static electricity, providing antistatic benefits, and can mitigate the harshness of surfactants in cleansing formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Typical formulations often employ Polyquaternium-7 at active polymer solids concentrations between 0.1% and 0.5%.
  2. 02 Suggested concentration ranges for general skincare and haircare applications fall between 0.5% and 5%.
  3. 03 Concentrations exceeding 5% in formulations may elevate the potential for allergic reactions.
  4. 04 An 8% aqueous solution was tested in repeated insult patch tests, indicating it is at most a mild cumulative irritant but not a sensitizer or photosensitizer.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Polyquaternium-7 is typically supplied as an aqueous solution, not a dry powder, rendering 'dusting' not applicable.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Polyquaternium-7 is a robust cationic copolymer, demonstrating excellent stability across a broad pH spectrum common in personal care products. This inherent stability is due to its quaternary nitrogen atom maintaining a consistent cationic charge irrespective of pH fluctuations. It is readily soluble in water, glycerin, and propylene glycol, but is insoluble in oil. It exhibits good compatibility with a wide array of surfactants, particularly anionic and nonionic types, and can be integrated into the water phase of formulations, typically towards the end of the manufacturing process without requiring heat.

Synergies

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Nonionic surfactants

Conflicts

  • Oil (insoluble)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed Polyquaternium-7 as safe for use in cosmetic products up to 5% concentration. While concentrations exceeding those typically used in cosmetics did not induce dermal irritation or sensitization, mild eye irritation, which resolved within 24 hours, was observed. The ingredient is not mutagenic. The CIR Panel also addressed the presence of acrylamide impurity (up to 10 ppm), concluding it is toxicologically insignificant when Polyquaternium-7 is used at or below 5% in formulations. Although generally well-tolerated, rare instances of allergic contact dermatitis have been reported by individuals with particularly hypersensitive skin.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Polyquaternium-7 is a valuable conditioning and film-forming agent, providing significant hydration and smoothness to the skin, with a strong safety profile at concentrations up to 5%.

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