PQ7 - Polyquaternium 7

Polyquaternium-7

• INCI Name:
  Polyquaternium-7
• Molecular Formula:
  Not a single fixed formula (copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride)
• CAS Number:
  26590-05-6
• Alternate Names:
  • PQ-7
  • Acrylamide/DADMAC Copolymer
  • Cationic Conditioning Polymer
  • Hair Conditioning Polymer
  • Anti-static Polymer

Key Benefits:

• Improves hair softness and smoothness
• Reduces static and frizz
• Enhances detangling and combability
• Provides silky, conditioned feel
• Improves skin feel in cleansers
• Increases formulation performance and luxury feel

Benefits & Uses (Short):

• Used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks
• Provides conditioning without heavy buildup
• Improves wet and dry combability
• Used in body washes and facial cleansers for better skin feel
• Enhances foam stability and texture in cleansing systems

Recommended Usage Level:

• Shampoos: 0.2% – 1.0%
• Conditioners: 0.5% – 2.0%
• Hair masks: 1% – 3%
• Body wash: 0.2% – 1.0%
• Facial cleansers: 0.1% – 0.5%

How It Works (Short):

• Works as a positively charged (cationic) polymer that binds to negatively charged hair and skin surfaces
• Forms a thin conditioning film that reduces friction between strands
• Helps detangle hair by smoothing cuticle layers
• Reduces static electricity, improving manageability and softness
• Enhances deposition of conditioning agents and active ingredients
• Improves sensory feel of rinse-off formulations without greasiness

FAQs:

Q: Is Polyquaternium-7 safe for hair?
A: Yes, it is widely used in shampoos and conditioners and is considered safe in regulated concentrations.

Q: Does it cause buildup?
A: It has low buildup compared to heavier conditioning polymers.

Q: Can it be used in sulfate-free shampoos?
A: Yes, it is fully compatible with sulfate-free systems.

Q: What is its main function?
A: It is mainly used for conditioning, detangling, and anti-static effects.

Q: Is it suitable for skin care?
A: Yes, it is often used in cleansers to improve skin feel and smoothness.