What it is
Polyquaternium-7 is a water-soluble copolymer of diallyldimethylammonium chloride and acrylamide that carries a positive charge along its backbone. Because the cationic sites are attracted to negatively charged skin and hair surfaces, it deposits a smooth conditioning film, reduces static, and can improve the sensory feel and spreadability of a formula. In sunscreens and other leave-on products it contributes a soft, conditioned afterfeel and can help stabilize texture.
Safety & warnings
Polyquaternium-7 has a long record of use in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics and is generally considered well tolerated, with low irritation potential at typical use levels. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen. Residual acrylamide monomer is controlled to low limits during manufacturing as part of standard quality specifications.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic polymer produced by copolymerizing acrylamide with the quaternary ammonium monomer diallyldimethylammonium chloride.
Questions everyone asks
Why is polyquaternium-7 used in skin products?
Its positive charge lets it bind to skin and hair, leaving a smooth conditioning film and improving the texture and afterfeel of the product.
Is polyquaternium-7 the same as a silicone?
No. It is a cationic acrylamide copolymer, not a silicone, though both can give a smooth, conditioned feel.