What Is Polyquaternium-7?

Polyquaternium-7 is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid.Polyquaternium-7 is a hydrophilic synthetic chemical compound and cationic conditioner. It has a stable chemical structure and it’s a quaternary ammonium compound. In its liquid form, the compound is clear or pale yellow in color. At its core, it’s a conditioning ingredient.

From parabens to sulfates, it’s clear that our hair products are doing more than just cleansing and hydrating.

One ingredient you may encounter in personal care products is called polyquaternium-7.

Polyquaternium-7 is just one of the many polyquats used in hair and skin care products. It’s a conditioning polymer, so it’s mainly used to help your hair or skin feel soft. There is some controversy surrounding this ingredient because it’s a derivative of acrylamide, which is a carcinogen and known to cause reproductive harm.

What is Polyquaternium-7 Used In?
This ingredient is added to an array of products, including: baby shampoo, bubble baths, conditioners, soaps, personal lubricants, and shaving cream. As a conditioning polymer, it helps detangle hair and keep it soft. It’s film-forming and an antistatic, which means it leaves continuous coverage while preventing frizz.

It loves water, which makes it a great hydrator and additive to skincare products. In some cases, the addition of this compound makes products easier to spread on the skin or hair.

Woman combing lather through back of hair
Prose, a popular made-to-order hair care company, lists polyquaternium-7 as one of their favorite ingredients. It’s used in their conditioners to create a film over hair damage and protect the hair from external factors. It also gives hair volume from the roots, which makes it an appealing ingredient for many consumers.

Since the compound has this unique ability to form a cohesive defense against aggressors, it’s safe for color-treated hair because it prevents the color from fading.

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