Quick answer

Works as a film-forming + viscosity increasing agent in skin care; Detangler and conditioning ingredient in hair care; Ruled safe as used in cosmetics; Usage levels range from 0.009-5%

Polyquaternium-7

Updated

Polyquaternium-7 is the polymeric quaternary ammonium salt of acrylamide and dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride

Purpose

This polymer is a film-forming agent and helps increase a formula’s viscosity.

Rating

GOOD

Category

Film-Forming Agent

INCI Purpose

ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING

Risks

Synthetic polymer — Lab-made polymer used to thicken or form a film — not a solid microplastic particle

Alternative Names

Hair Profile

Functions

Conditioning Film Former

Helps With

Tangling Frizz Damaged

Suitable For

All types

Role

Cationic film-forming polymer. Superior detangling, anti-static, and wet-slip; reduces mechanical breakage from brushing.

Length Build-up risk

At a Glance

Works as a film-forming + viscosity increasing agent in skin care

Detangler and conditioning ingredient in hair care

Ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Usage levels range from 0.009-5%

Article

Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic polymer used in skin care products as a film-forming agent and to help increase the viscosity of a formula. In hair care, it is a detangler and conditioning ingredient.

In its liquid form, it is a clear to pale yellow color.

The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled polyquaterium-7 safe as used in cosmetics. Usage levels for polyquaternium-7 range from 0.009-5%.

See: Polyquaterniums, Polyquaternium 39, Polymer

References