Skincare Ingredient
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Polyquaternium-7
In Skincare: Is Polyquaternium-7 Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Polyquaternium-7 functions as a film former and viscosity increasing agent in skincare formulations.
- 02
In hair care, polyquaternium-7 acts as a detangling and conditioning ingredient.
- 03
The CIR Expert Panel has determined polyquaternium-7 to be safe as used in cosmetics.
- 04
Concentrations of polyquaternium-7 typically range from 0.009% to 5% in cosmetic products.
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Polyquaternium-7
Role of Polyquaternium-7
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
ANTISTATIC
Static EliminatorReduces static electricity and flyaway hair
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Antistatic agents neutralize electrostatic charges through cationic surfactants (quaternary ammonium compounds like behentrimonium chloride) or conductive polymers that increase surface conductivity to dissipate charge or attract moisture. The mechanism involves forming a conductive film on fiber surfaces, neutralizing charge buildup. Particularly effective on damaged hair with raised cuticles.
FILM FORMING
Protective Coating AgentCreates a continuous thin layer on surfaces
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Film-forming polymers create continuous, cohesive coatings after solvent evaporation or chemical crosslinking. These include natural polymers (shellac, chitosan), synthetic polymers (acrylates copolymers, PVP/VA copolymer, polyurethanes), and modified natural polymers. Film formation involves spreading, solvent evaporation, polymer chain interpenetration, and coalescence. Film properties depend on glass transition temperature, molecular weight, and plasticizer content.
Products
containing Polyquaternium-7
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References
Scientific sources
LotionCrafter, Accessed March 2023, Website
SpecialChem, Accessed March 2023, Website
International Journal of Toxicology, October 2011, pages 73S-127S
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Polyquaternium-7 — common questions
What is Polyquaternium-7 in skincare?
Polyquaternium-7 is a clear to pale yellow liquid. It’s a quaternary ammonium compound (often referred to as a “Quat”) and is typically supplied as an 8% aqueous solution.
What does Polyquaternium-7 do? / Functions of Polyquaternium-7?
Common functions: ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Polyquaternium-7? / Is Polyquaternium-7 comedogenic?
The comedogenic rating of Polyquaternium-7 has not been established in our database.
Does it clog pores?
Whether Polyquaternium-7 clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.
Is Polyquaternium-7 safe for skin?
Polyquaternium-7 has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Generally considered safe in rinse-off and leave-on hair and skin products per CIR assessments; low irritation risk but can bother very sensitive or broken skin. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) E
Is Polyquaternium-7 good for sensitive skin?
Polyquaternium-7 has an irritancy rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Polyquaternium-7 in skincare?
Known considerations: Generally considered safe in rinse-off and leave-on hair and skin products per CIR assessments; low irritation risk but can bother very sensitive or broken skin. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Polyquaternium-7 is safe for use in cosmetics, with limited safety data available on long-term or high-concentration exposure.