Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is a synthetic ingredient used in cosmetics for its film-forming and conditioning benefits. It carries a positive charge that naturally binds to the negatively charged surface of skin and hair - forming a smooth, uniform layer that enhances softness. It is particularly effective on damaged, chemically treated, and dry hair because these have more negative sites for the polymer to cling to. Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer reduces static and flyaways while ensuring long-lasting conditioning. It also thickens formulas, giving them a creamy, rich feel. Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and serums, hydrating body lotions, and cleansing wipes.
Products with ACRYLAMIDOPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE/ACRYLAMIDE COPOLYMER
With samples available
N-Hance™ 4572 Conditioning Polymer
by Ashland
- Sustainable option
N-Hance™ SP-100
by Ashland
SALCARE® SC 60
by BASF
What is ACRYLAMIDOPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE/ACRYLAMIDE COPOLYMER used for?
- Film forming - Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer forms a lightweight, flexible film on skin and hair that helps products stay in place and improves their performance. It coats the hair strands and enables styling without making them stiff. Moreover, the film helps retain moisture and protects the surface from environmental stress and heat.
- Conditioning - Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is naturally attracted to dry and damaged parts of hair - coating, conditioning, and repairing it. It reduces friction and enhances softness, giving hair a smooth, silky finish. In skincare, it creates a velvety after-feel and extends the moisturization effect of other ingredients.
- Anti-static - Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer coats the hair, preventing static buildup and flyaways. The anti-static effect also enhances shine and reduces the frayed, “fluffy” appearance of unconditioned hair.
- Thickening - In water-based formulas, the copolymer helps increase viscosity and create a richer, more luxurious texture. It stabilizes emulsions, prevents separation, and gives conditioners, masks, and lotions a creamy consistency. This thickening effect contributes to better spreadability and helps the product cling to hair or skin during application.
Origin
Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is made by chemically linking two monomers - acrylamidopropyltrimonium chloride and acrylamide. The resulting ingredient is filtered and purified. In its raw form, Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer appears as a non-transparent, sticky liquid which dissolves readily in water.
What does ACRYLAMIDOPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE/ACRYLAMIDE COPOLYMER do in a formulation?
ANTISTATIC|
FILM FORMING|
HAIR FIXING|
HAIR CONDITIONINGSafety Profile
Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is safe and non-toxic at typical concentrations. It does not penetrate beneath the surface, reducing the risks of side effects. It works well on most skin types. However, patch testing is recommended. Additionally, Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer is synthetic and non-biodegradable - so it poses some environmental concerns.
ACRYLAMIDOPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE/ACRYLAMIDE COPOLYMER alternatives
ACRYLAMIDOPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE/ACRYLAMIDE COPOLYMER technical profile
| Property | Values |
pH | 4.0 - 7.5 |
Solubility | Soluble in water; insoluble in oil |
Viscosity | Low to medium |