actives8% Active Solution

Polyquaternium-7

Polyquaternium-7

conditioningfilm formerantioxidantviscosity modifier
CAS Number:26590-05-6

INCI Name

Polyquaternium-7

Functions

4 Roles

Sustainability

4/10

Category

actives

What It Does

Polyquaternium-7 is a copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride, widely used in hair care and skin care formulations for its exceptional conditioning properties. Unlike many other polyquaterniums, PQ-7 is unique in its ability to provide excellent wet and dry combability while maintaining good compatibility with anionic surfactants in shampoo systems, making it particularly valuable in 2-in-1 formulations. Formulators choose it for its ability to reduce static, enhance shine, and provide a silky feel without buildup, while also offering some antioxidant protection and foam stabilization in cleansing products.

Improves slip and manageability
Reduces static and frizz
Adds shine and smoothness
Protects from mechanical damage

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

medium

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Known Interactions

SODIUM LAURYL SULFATEIncompatiblePrecipitation

Cationic quats + Anionic SLS form insoluble precipitate, neutralizing both the disinfectant and the surfactant. Use nonionic surfactants with quat-based disinfectants.

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

4/10

Biodegradability

not readily biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride

Available Variants

2 forms available

8% Active Solution

Standard

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name
Polyquaternium-7
Common Name
Polyquaternium-7
CAS Number
26590-05-6
Category
actives

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Polyquaternium-7 (Polyquaternium-7) - conditioning, film former, antioxidant, viscosity modifier | Genie Ingredient Database