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POLYQUATERNIUM-7

Last update on Mar 27, 2026

Polyquaternium-7 is a quaternary ammonium, hydrophilic synthetic chemical compound, It is cationic and has a stable chemical structure. In its liquid form, the compound is clear or pale yellow in color. Polyquaternium 7 is a very good detangler and provides slip for easier wet-combing. In addition, it will add softness and shine to dry hair.

CAS Number: 26590-05-6Chem/IUPAC Name: Poly(acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride)EINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 36882

Products with POLYQUATERNIUM-7

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KSP-100W

by Shin-Etsu

INCI: VINYL DIMETHICONE/METHICONE SILSESQUIOXANE CROSSPOLYMER | PEG-7 GLYCERYL COCOATE | METHYLSILANOL TRI-PEG-8 GLYCERYL COCOATE | POLYQUATERNIUM-7

What is POLYQUATERNIUM-7 used for?

Polyquaternium-7 imparts a smooth velvety feel and improves slip and moisturization in skin and hair care products. It is used in an array of products: shampoos, creams, body lotions, body wash, baby shampoo, bubble baths, conditioners, soaps, and shaving cream. It can be used in anhydrous products as well.

  • Skin care: It is used in skin care formulations to improve glide, provide softness and hydration
  • Hair care: As a conditioning agent, it helps detangle hairs and keep them soft. It has film-forming and antistatic properties thus provides continuous coverage while preventing frizz, improves wet combing and detangling of hair

Origin

Polyquaternium-7 is a quaternized copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride. It is produced synthetically by copolymerization of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC). The reaction is carried out in water to yield a high-molecular-weight cationic polymer. It is fully petrochemical-derived and manufactured under controlled conditions to achieve consistent charge density and viscosity. It is supplied as a ready-to-use aqueous solution for easy incorporation into cosmetic bases.

What does POLYQUATERNIUM-7 do in a formulation?

ANTISTATIC|
FILM FORMING|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
MOISTURISING|
SMOOTHING|
SKIN CONDITIONING

Safety Profile

Polyquaternium-7 is non-toxic and safe for topical application when used in limits. Above 5%, it is considered to cause an allergic reaction on the body. According to a study, if the concentration of Polyquaternium-7 is below 5% in the formulation, then the amount of acrylamide is non-toxic in nature. Even if any allergic reaction occurs, it is very mild and subsides within 24 hours. Some people with hypersensitive skin or any other skin conditions have reported allergic contact dermatitis due to the presence of Polyquaternium-7 in skincare products.

POLYQUATERNIUM-7 technical profile

PropertyValues
pH6.5-8.5
SolubilitySoluble in water
Viscosity7500-15000 mPa.s