
THE STORY OF POLYQUATERNIUM 10
Polyquaternium-10: The Conditioning Polymer for Soft, Smooth & Manageable Hair
Polyquaternium-10 is a cationic cellulose derivative known for its excellent conditioning, detangling, and film-forming properties. It enhances smoothness, improves manageability, and reduces static, making it a key ingredient in premium haircare and personal-care formulations.
Derived from Natural Cellulose and Refined Through Advanced Quaternization
Polyquaternium-10 is produced by chemically modifying natural cellulose through quaternization, creating a positively charged polymer with superior conditioning performance. The resulting material is purified, dried, and milled into a fine powder that meets cosmetic-grade standards for clarity, safety, and consistency.
Superior Conditioning, Detangling & Sensory Enhancement
In personal care, Polyquaternium-10 acts as a conditioning agent, anti-static polymer, and film former.
It reduces friction, enhances slip, improves wet and dry combability, and imparts a soft, silky touch. Its ability to deposit a lightweight, protective film makes it ideal for haircare, cleansing products, and mild skin-conditioning formulas.
Mild, Effective & Highly Compatible with Haircare Systems
Used in shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, body washes, and skin-cleansing systems.
Recommended usage: typically 0.1–1%, depending on conditioning intensity.
Store in a cool, dry area in well-sealed packaging.
Polyquaternium-10 is mild, biodegradable, and globally approved for cosmetic use, offering consistent performance in both rinse-off and leave-on formulations.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Polyquaternium-10?
Polyquaternium-10 is a water-soluble, cationic polymer derived from hydroxyethyl cellulose. It is widely used in personal care formulations for its conditioning, film-forming, and anti-static properties. Its positive charge allows it to bond effectively with negatively charged surfaces like hair and skin, enhancing product performance.
2. What are the CAS Number and INCI Name of Polyquaternium-10?
CAS Number: 68610-92-4
INCI Name: Polyquaternium-10
Note: Other CAS numbers associated with Polyquaternium-10 include 81859-24-7 and 53568-66-4 .
3. What are the benefits of using Polyquaternium-10 in personal care products?
Hair Conditioning: Smooths the hair cuticle, reduces frizz, and enhances manageability.
Moisture Retention: Forms a protective film that helps retain moisture on hair and skin.
Anti-Static Properties: Neutralizes static charges, preventing flyaways in hair.
Improved Texture: Enhances the feel and spreadability of formulations.
Product Stability: Helps maintain the consistency and stability of emulsions .
4. What are the common applications of Polyquaternium-10 in personal care?
Hair Care: Shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, styling gels, and sprays.
Skin Care: Cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and exfoliants.
Color Cosmetics: Foundations, mascaras, and eyeliners for improved wear and texture .
5. Is Polyquaternium-10 safe for use in personal care products?
Yes, Polyquaternium-10 is considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed its safety and concluded that it is safe as a cosmetic ingredient. Studies indicate low toxicity and minimal skin penetration .
6. Can Polyquaternium-10 cause skin irritation?
At concentrations up to 2%, Polyquaternium-10 is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing. However, at higher concentrations (e.g., 5%), it may cause mild irritation to the skin or eyes in some individuals .
7. Is Polyquaternium-10 environmentally friendly?
Polyquaternium-10 is a synthetic polymer and may not be readily biodegradable. Its environmental impact is a subject of ongoing research, and efforts are being made to develop more sustainable alternatives.
8. Are there alternatives to Polyquaternium-10 in personal care products?
Yes, alternatives include:
Polyquaternium-7: Another cationic polymer with similar conditioning properties.
Natural Film-Formers: Such as plant-derived gums and proteins.
Biodegradable Polymers: Like polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).