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POLYQUATERNIUM-80

Last update on May 12, 2026

Polyquaternium-80 is a cationic conditioning polymer derived from hydroxyethylcellulose. It is specifically designed to provide excellent hair conditioning with minimal build-up. It adsorbs onto the hair shaft, offering superior detangling, smoothness, shine, and antistatic properties. This ingredient is particularly popular in modern “clean” and sulfate-free hair care products, including shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments, and masks, where it delivers lightweight conditioning suitable for daily use and fine to medium hair types.

CAS Number: Chem/IUPAC Name: Polyquaternium-80 EINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 83947

Products with POLYQUATERNIUM-80

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Sharomix™ AM 24

by Sharon Laboratories

INCI: METHYLPROPANEDIOL | CAPRYLYL GLYCOL | DIDECYLDIMONIUM CHLORIDE | POLYQUATERNIUM-80

Sustainable option

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SharoSENSE™ Plus 181

by Sharon Laboratories

INCI: MALTOL | POLYQUATERNIUM-80

Sustainable option

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Active.Lite® Hair

by Active Concepts

INCI: AQUA | SELAGINELLA LEPIDOPHYLLA EXTRACT | HYDROLYZED PEA PROTEIN | POLYQUATERNIUM-80

Sustainable option

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What is POLYQUATERNIUM-80 used for?

Hair conditioning: Improves wet and dry combability, softness, and manageability. Frequently used in conditioners and leave-in products for smooth, silky hair.
Antistatic agent: Effectively reduces static electricity and flyaways. Ideal for frizz control and smoothing serums.
Film forming: Forms a light protective film on the hair surface. Common in styling products and heat protectants for added shine and protection.

Origin

Polyquaternium-80 is produced synthetically by grafting diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC) onto a hydroxyethylcellulose backbone. The resulting cationic polymer is supplied as an aqueous solution. It combines the natural feel of cellulose with strong cationic conditioning properties.

What does POLYQUATERNIUM-80 do in a formulation?

FILM FORMING|

ANTISTATIC|

HAIR CONDITIONING

Safety Profile

Polyquaternium-80 is considered safe for cosmetic use with a low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1–2). It is non-irritating, has low sensitization potential, and is well-tolerated on the scalp and hair. Its large molecular size prevents significant skin penetration. Approved by the EU COSING database for hair conditioning and antistatic functions in rinse-off and leave-on hair products.