thickeners

Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer

Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer

film formerconditioningthickenerviscosity modifier

INCI Name

Acrylamidopropyltrim...

Functions

4 Roles

Sustainability

2/10

Category

thickeners

What It Does

Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is a synthetic cationic polymer formed by the copolymerization of acrylamide and a quaternary ammonium acrylamide monomer, giving it a permanent positive charge along the polymer backbone. This unique charge distribution allows it to adsorb strongly onto negatively charged hair and skin surfaces, providing substantive conditioning, detangling, and a smooth, silky feel without significant buildup. Formulators favor it in rinse-off and leave-on hair care products, as well as skin care formulations, because it simultaneously contributes mild rheology modification and film-forming properties while remaining compatible with a broad range of surfactant systems.

Creates smooth, even coverage
Provides long-lasting hold
Enhances water resistance
Improves product wear time

Technical Properties

pH Range

3.0-9.0

Optimal working range

Ionic Charge

cationic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

low

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

anionic surfactantsnonionic surfactantsamphoteric surfactantshumectantspolyolsmost conditioning agents

Avoid Combining

strong anionic polymers at high concentrationsstrong oxidizing agentshigh electrolyte concentrations
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

2/10

Biodegradability

not readily biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

petroleum-derived acrylamide monomers and quaternary ammonium monomers

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