Polyquaternium-7<\/strong>, also known as PQ-7<\/strong>, is a water-soluble cationic polymer widely used in cosmetic and personal-care formulations. It is particularly valued for its conditioning, antistatic and film-forming properties, which help improve the feel and manageability of hair while contributing to a softer skin feel in suitable cleansing products.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is frequently used in shampoos, hair conditioners, shower gels, body washes, liquid hand cleansers and selected skincare formulations.<\/p>\n Its compatibility with many conventional surfactant systems makes it a popular choice for manufacturers developing cleansing products that combine effective washing with conditioning benefits.<\/p>\n Unlike conventional moisturizers, Polyquaternium-7 primarily works through surface conditioning and film formation rather than by acting as a strong water-binding humectant.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic cationic copolymer produced from acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC).<\/p>\n The polymer contains positively charged quaternary ammonium groups that contribute to its conditioning and antistatic performance.<\/p>\n INCI Name:<\/strong> Polyquaternium-7 Commercial cosmetic grades are commonly supplied as clear to slightly yellow, viscous aqueous solutions.<\/p>\n Many commercial grades contain approximately 8\u201310% active polymer, although the actual concentration depends on the manufacturer.<\/p>\n Because the product is usually supplied diluted in water, formulators must distinguish between the amount of commercial solution added and the actual active polymer concentration.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 contains positively charged groups that can interact with negatively charged sites on hair surfaces.<\/p>\n Hair fibers, particularly chemically treated or damaged-looking hair, can exhibit negative surface charges.<\/p>\n The positively charged polymer can associate with these surfaces and form a thin conditioning film.<\/p>\n This film may reduce friction between individual hair fibers, making hair easier to comb and improving its smoothness.<\/p>\n The same general film-forming behavior can contribute to a softer and more pleasant sensory profile in selected skin-cleansing products.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 for shampoo<\/strong> is one of the most important applications of this ingredient.<\/p>\n In conventional shampoos, cleansing surfactants remove oils, dirt and other materials from the hair and scalp. However, washing may leave hair feeling rough or difficult to comb, particularly when the hair is already dry or damaged-looking.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 can help balance this sensory effect by contributing conditioning properties to the finished shampoo.<\/p>\n It is commonly used in daily shampoos, conditioning shampoos, two-in-one shampoo concepts and selected sulfate-free cleansing systems.<\/p>\n Its inclusion may help improve wet combing, reduce static electricity and create a smoother after-wash feel.<\/p>\n The actual result depends on the surfactant system, polymer grade and concentration.<\/p>\n One of the main advantages of Polyquaternium-7 is its ability to function in many shampoo formulations containing anionic surfactants.<\/p>\n It can be evaluated in systems containing Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and other compatible cleansing agents.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 may also be used alongside amphoteric surfactants such as Cocamidopropyl Betaine.<\/p>\n Although positively charged polymers and negatively charged surfactants can interact, appropriately selected combinations can provide desirable conditioning effects.<\/p>\n Compatibility should never be assumed in every formulation. Changes in surfactant concentration, electrolyte content or polymer grade can affect viscosity, clarity and stability.<\/p>\n In some shampoo systems, polymer-surfactant interactions can contribute to the deposition of conditioning materials during rinsing.<\/p>\n This is particularly useful when developing products intended to leave hair feeling soft and manageable after cleansing.<\/p>\n The deposition behavior depends on the composition of the surfactant system, the polymer’s charge characteristics and the conditions encountered during product dilution.<\/p>\n Professional formulation testing is necessary to achieve consistent results without excessive buildup or undesirable residue.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is widely used as an anti-static hair care ingredient<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Static electricity can cause individual hair fibers to repel one another, contributing to flyaways and an uncontrolled appearance.<\/p>\n The cationic nature of Polyquaternium-7 can help reduce these effects.<\/p>\n In suitable formulations, it may contribute to smoother-looking hair, easier styling and improved manageability.<\/p>\n However, the ingredient does not permanently change the structure of hair or provide lasting straightening effects.<\/p>\n Wet hair can be particularly susceptible to mechanical stress during brushing and detangling.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 helps improve hair lubricity in compatible formulations, potentially reducing the force required for combing.<\/p>\n This makes it useful in shampoos, conditioners and detangling products.<\/p>\n The benefit is primarily related to surface conditioning. Polyquaternium-7 does not permanently repair broken hair fibers or reverse chemical damage.<\/p>\n An appropriate cosmetic claim is:<\/p>\n “Helps improve hair softness, detangling and manageability.”<\/strong><\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 may also be incorporated into hair conditioners, where it contributes to a smooth and conditioned feel.<\/p>\n It can complement other conditioning ingredients such as Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Panthenol and compatible silicone-based conditioning agents.<\/p>\n The polymer may help improve combability and contribute to the sensory characteristics of the finished conditioner.<\/p>\n However, Polyquaternium-7 is not necessarily a substitute for a complete cationic conditioning-emulsion system.<\/p>\n Its compatibility with other positively charged ingredients and the overall formulation must be evaluated.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 can also be evaluated in lightweight leave-in conditioners, detangling sprays and certain styling products.<\/p>\n Its water compatibility can simplify incorporation into suitable aqueous formulations.<\/p>\n In leave-on applications, the concentration should be selected carefully to balance conditioning performance with the desired hair feel.<\/p>\n Excessive polymer deposition may contribute to tackiness, heaviness or buildup in some formulations.<\/p>\n Products designed for fine hair may require a different polymer level from products intended for coarse or difficult-to-comb hair.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is also used in body wash and shower gel formulations<\/strong>.<\/p>\n In these products, it can contribute to a smooth, conditioned after-feel and may improve the sensory characteristics of the cleansing system.<\/p>\n Its inclusion may be useful in products designed for consumers who prefer a softer feel after washing.<\/p>\n Some grades can also influence foam texture, making the foam feel denser or creamier.<\/p>\n However, Polyquaternium-7 does not replace the primary cleansing surfactants, and it does not guarantee increased foam volume in every formulation.<\/p>\n The finished product should be evaluated for foam, viscosity, stability and skin feel.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 may be incorporated into selected liquid hand-cleansing products.<\/p>\n It can contribute to a more conditioned feel after rinsing, particularly when the formulation contains an appropriate balance of cleansing and conditioning ingredients.<\/p>\n Possible applications include premium liquid hand washes, conditioning cleansers and selected mild surfactant systems.<\/p>\n However, the polymer is not a cleansing agent in its own right. It does not remove dirt or grease independently and should not be marketed as an antibacterial ingredient.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 may also be used in selected facial cleansing formulations where a smoother skin feel is desired.<\/p>\n Its film-forming properties can contribute to the sensory profile of a cleanser.<\/p>\n However, facial products require careful attention to irritation potential, residue and compatibility with other ingredients.<\/p>\n The presence of Polyquaternium-7 does not automatically make a cleanser suitable for every sensitive skin type.<\/p>\n The complete finished formulation must undergo an appropriate safety assessment.<\/p>\n Although Polyquaternium-7 is particularly popular in hair care, it can also be incorporated into selected skincare emulsions, lotions and gels.<\/p>\n Its primary contribution is related to film formation and surface conditioning.<\/p>\n It may help provide a smooth, soft or slightly slippery sensation during and after application.<\/p>\n However, it is not a traditional emollient oil or a replacement for humectants such as Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid or Panthenol.<\/p>\n In moisturizing formulations, these ingredients may be combined with Polyquaternium-7 to achieve different functional objectives.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is sometimes described as a moisturizing polymer because of the soft and conditioned feel it can provide.<\/p>\n However, its primary recognized functions are antistatic performance and film formation.<\/p>\n Unlike Glycerin, which attracts and retains water, Polyquaternium-7 mainly modifies the properties of the hair or skin surface.<\/p>\n It should therefore be positioned primarily as a conditioning polymer rather than as an intensive moisturizing active.<\/p>\n Any finished-product hydration claims should be supported by appropriate testing.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 may be useful in selected shaving gels and foaming shaving formulations.<\/p>\n Its lubricating and film-forming characteristics can contribute to product slip and application comfort.<\/p>\n This may improve the sensory experience during shaving.<\/p>\n However, it should not automatically be claimed to prevent razor irritation, eliminate redness or protect against every type of mechanical skin injury.<\/p>\n Such benefits depend on the complete formulation and should be verified through finished-product performance testing.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 and Polyquaternium-10 are both cationic conditioning polymers, but their chemical structures and processing characteristics are different.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7<\/strong> is a synthetic copolymer based on acrylamide and DADMAC. It is commonly supplied as a ready-to-use aqueous solution and can be incorporated into suitable water-based formulations without the extensive powder hydration required by some other polymers.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-10<\/strong> is a chemically modified cellulose-derived polymer. Many commercial grades are supplied as powders that must be dispersed and hydrated before use.<\/p>\n Both ingredients may provide antistatic and conditioning benefits, but they can produce different viscosity, deposition and sensory effects.<\/p>\n They should not be substituted directly at equal percentages without considering their active content and formulation properties.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 may be used in selected soap and cleansing-product formulations, but it is important to distinguish traditional alkaline soap from modern synthetic-detergent cleansers.<\/p>\n The ingredient is particularly suited to compatible water-based systems such as shampoos, shower gels and syndet liquid cleansers.<\/p>\n In these products, its conditioning behavior can be evaluated together with the primary surfactants.<\/p>\n Traditional cold process soap is different because it is manufactured using strongly alkaline ingredients and has a substantially different surfactant composition.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is not required for saponification and does not replace soap-making oils, Sodium Hydroxide or Potassium Hydroxide.<\/p>\n Its performance and stability in highly alkaline soap systems should not be assumed.<\/p>\n For manufacturers developing premium liquid cleansing products, PQ-7 is generally a more relevant ingredient than it is for conventional handmade soap bars.<\/p>\n The correct concentration of Polyquaternium-7 depends on the commercial solution’s active polymer content.<\/p>\n For a typical aqueous grade containing approximately 8\u201310% active polymer<\/strong>, preliminary development of shampoos and body washes may begin around 1\u20133% of the supplied commercial solution<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Depending on the supplier and product type, lower or higher usage levels may be appropriate.<\/p>\n A formulation containing 2% of a 10% active Polyquaternium-7 solution contains approximately 0.2% active polymer in the finished product.<\/p>\n These values should not be confused with adding the same percentage of dry or concentrated Polyquaternium-7.<\/p>\n The supplier’s Technical Data Sheet should always be used to determine the appropriate commercial solution dosage.<\/p>\n Higher concentrations do not necessarily produce better conditioning results and may affect viscosity, foam or sensory performance.<\/p>\n Commercial Polyquaternium-7 is commonly supplied as a viscous, water-based solution.<\/p>\n In compatible formulations, it can generally be added to the aqueous phase or incorporated during an appropriate stage of the manufacturing process.<\/p>\n For shampoo and body wash production, the material should be weighed accurately and introduced gradually under controlled mixing.<\/p>\n Excessive mixing or unnecessary air incorporation should be avoided, especially in surfactant-based systems.<\/p>\n The finished product should be checked for uniformity, viscosity, clarity and foam behavior.<\/p>\n Unlike powdered Polyquaternium-10, a ready-to-use Polyquaternium-7 solution generally does not require a separate polymer hydration process.<\/p>\n However, the exact mixing method should follow the supplier’s recommended procedure.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is a water-soluble polymer.<\/p>\n Commercial aqueous solutions can normally be incorporated into many compatible water-containing cosmetic formulations.<\/p>\n It is not a conventional oil-soluble cosmetic ingredient.<\/p>\n The polymer may be combined with certain anionic, amphoteric and nonionic surfactants, although actual compatibility depends on the grade and formula.<\/p>\n The final system should be evaluated for phase separation, precipitation, viscosity changes and polymer-surfactant interactions.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 can be used in different cosmetic pH environments depending on the commercial grade.<\/p>\n A fixed pH specification of 4.0\u20137.0<\/strong> should not automatically be assigned to every product.<\/p>\n For example, the supplier may specify the pH of the concentrated commercial solution, while the intended shampoo or shower gel may have a different final pH.<\/p>\n The preferred pH must be determined according to the complete formulation, target application and supplier stability data.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 can influence both the foam characteristics and viscosity of certain cleansing formulations.<\/p>\n In suitable systems, it may contribute to a creamier foam feel and improved sensory conditioning.<\/p>\n However, it is not a conventional primary foam booster or universal thickener.<\/p>\n Its effects depend on the polymer’s molecular characteristics, the surfactant system, electrolyte content and concentration.<\/p>\n A change in the amount of Polyquaternium-7 may also alter product clarity or viscosity.<\/p>\n For this reason, professional manufacturers should evaluate the ingredient during laboratory development rather than relying on a fixed dosage for every formulation.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic polymer manufactured through controlled chemical polymerization.<\/p>\n It should not be marketed as a natural botanical extract or an unmodified plant-derived ingredient.<\/p>\n Any claims relating to vegan suitability, biodegradability or specific cosmetic certifications must be supported by the commercial supplier’s documentation.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is produced using acrylamide as one of its starting monomers.<\/p>\n Although the finished polymer is chemically different from free acrylamide, residual unreacted monomer is an important raw-material quality parameter.<\/p>\n For the European market, the applicable cosmetic restrictions on polyacrylamides include limits on residual acrylamide content.<\/p>\n The relevant limits include 0.1 mg\/kg for body leave-on products<\/strong> and 0.5 mg\/kg for other cosmetic products<\/strong>, subject to the applicable regulatory provisions.<\/p>\n Professional cosmetic manufacturers should obtain appropriate documentation showing that the selected raw-material grade can be used in compliant finished formulations.<\/p>\n The presence of Polyquaternium-7 does not automatically make a formulation unsafe. The relevant consideration is the identity, purity and quality of the actual supplied material, together with the finished-product exposure and safety assessment.<\/p>\n No.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 is a cationic conditioning polymer, not a conventional antimicrobial preservative.<\/p>\n Its quaternary ammonium groups should not be confused with the antimicrobial properties of certain low-molecular-weight quaternary ammonium disinfectants.<\/p>\n Adding Polyquaternium-7 to a shampoo or body wash does not independently protect the product against bacterial, yeast or mold contamination.<\/p>\n Water-containing cosmetic products may require an appropriate preservative system and microbiological challenge testing.<\/p>\n Product Name:<\/strong> Polyquaternium-7 Commercial Active Content:<\/strong> Typically around 8\u201310%, depending on grade Polyquaternium-7 products can differ significantly between manufacturers.<\/p>\n The concentration of the active polymer, viscosity, molecular weight, residual monomer level and preservation system may affect formulation performance.<\/p>\n A commercial solution may contain water and additional preservatives besides Polyquaternium-7.<\/p>\n Therefore, the ingredient declaration must reflect the exact composition of the supplied raw material.<\/p>\n Professional quality documentation should include the Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).<\/p>\n For cosmetic manufacturing, active polymer content and residual acrylamide specifications are particularly important.<\/p>\n Finished formulations containing Polyquaternium-7 should undergo appropriate stability and compatibility testing.<\/p>\n In shampoos and body washes, the manufacturer should evaluate viscosity, appearance, pH, foam behavior and conditioning performance.<\/p>\n Compatibility with anionic surfactants and electrolytes is especially important.<\/p>\n Products should also be tested under suitable storage conditions to confirm that the polymer does not cause undesirable separation, precipitation or changes in consistency.<\/p>\n Microbiological quality and preservative effectiveness must be evaluated separately.<\/p>\n Polyquaternium-7 should be handled as a cosmetic formulation raw material.<\/p>\n Avoid direct eye contact, ingestion and unnecessary prolonged exposure to concentrated material.<\/p>\n Use suitable protective equipment during professional manufacturing and follow the supplier’s Safety Data Sheet.<\/p>\n The concentrated commercial solution should not automatically be treated as a ready-to-use hair or skincare product.<\/p>\n The safety of the finished product depends on its concentration, composition and intended application.<\/p>\n Store Polyquaternium-7 in tightly closed, compatible packaging under the conditions recommended by the supplier.<\/p>\n Protect the material from contamination, excessive heat and unsuitable storage temperatures.<\/p>\n Some water-based polymer solutions may be affected by freezing or prolonged temperature exposure.<\/p>\n The actual storage requirements and shelf life should be confirmed from the commercial grade’s technical documentation.<\/p>\n We supply Polyquaternium-7, Polyquaternium-10, cosmetic conditioning polymers, surfactants, humectants, emulsifiers and other personal-care formulation raw materials in wholesale quantities<\/strong> for cosmetic brands, laboratories, manufacturers, retailers and professional formulators.<\/p>\n We also provide custom cosmetic formulation development services<\/strong> for shampoos, hair conditioners, scalp-care products, shower gels and other personal-care formulations.<\/p>\n Our formulation development services include raw-material selection, conditioning-system optimization, polymer-surfactant compatibility assessment, viscosity development, manufacturing procedures, quality-control specifications and technical documentation.<\/p>\n For manufacturers developing conditioning shampoos or liquid cleansing products, we can evaluate different polymer grades and surfactant systems to achieve the desired balance between cleaning performance, foam characteristics, smoothness and after-wash conditioning.<\/p>\n Private label and contract manufacturing services<\/strong> are available for selected liquid soaps, detergents, cleaning products and other categories within our manufacturing capabilities. Cosmetic formulation development projects are offered separately from finished cosmetic manufacturing.<\/p>\n For bulk Polyquaternium-7 orders, custom cosmetic formulation development, private label or contract manufacturing inquiries<\/strong>, please contact us with your required quantity, commercial grade, active polymer content, product concept, packaging requirements and target market.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Polyquaternium-7 (PQ-7) is a water-soluble cationic conditioning polymer widely used in shampoos, hair conditioners, shower gels and personal-care formulations. It helps reduce static electricity, improve wet and dry combability, and provide a soft, smooth feel to hair and skin.<\/p>\n Its compatibility with many anionic and amphoteric surfactant systems makes it particularly useful in conditioning shampoos and body washes. Polyquaternium-7 is typically supplied as an aqueous polymer solution, with the exact active content depending on the commercial grade.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":30821,"template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[248,53],"product_tag":[2146,2149,2145,2112,2147,728,2106,2150,642,2148,2144,2143,2099,2151,2152],"class_list":["post-29317","product","type-product","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","product_cat-cosmetic-raw-materials","product_cat-natural-oils","product_tag-anti-static-hair-care-ingredient","product_tag-body-wash-conditioning-agent","product_tag-cationic-conditioning-polymer","product_tag-conditioning-shampoo-ingredient","product_tag-cosmetic-conditioning-polymer","product_tag-cosmetic-raw-materials","product_tag-hair-conditioning-polymer","product_tag-hair-detangling-ingredient","product_tag-polyquaternium-7","product_tag-polyquaternium-7-for-cosmetics","product_tag-polyquaternium-7-for-shampoo","product_tag-pq-7","product_tag-shampoo-formulation-ingredients","product_tag-water-soluble-polymer","product_tag-wholesale-polyquaternium-7","first","instock","shipping-taxable","purchasable","product-type-simple"],"yoast_head":"\nWhat Is Polyquaternium-7?<\/h2>\n
\nAlternative Name:<\/strong> PQ-7
\nCAS Number:<\/strong> 26590-05-6
\nChemical Family:<\/strong> Cationic Acrylamide\/DADMAC Copolymer
\nPrimary Functions:<\/strong> Antistatic, Film Forming and Conditioning<\/p>\nHow Does Polyquaternium-7 Work?<\/h2>\n
Polyquaternium-7 for Shampoo Formulations<\/h2>\n
Compatibility With Anionic Surfactants<\/h2>\n
Conditioning and Deposition in Shampoo<\/h2>\n
Anti-Static Properties and Frizz Control<\/h2>\n
Easier Wet and Dry Combing<\/h2>\n
Use in Hair Conditioners<\/h2>\n
Use in Leave-In Hair Products<\/h2>\n
Polyquaternium-7 for Body Wash and Shower Gel<\/h2>\n
Use in Liquid Hand Cleansers<\/h2>\n
Use in Facial Cleansers<\/h2>\n
Polyquaternium-7 in Skincare Products<\/h2>\n
Is Polyquaternium-7 a Moisturizer?<\/h2>\n
Use in Shaving Products<\/h2>\n
Polyquaternium-7 vs. Polyquaternium-10<\/h2>\n
Polyquaternium-7 in Soap Making<\/h2>\n
Typical Usage Levels<\/h2>\n
How to Use Polyquaternium-7<\/h2>\n
Water Solubility and Compatibility<\/h2>\n
Formulation pH<\/h2>\n
Foam and Viscosity Performance<\/h2>\n
Is Polyquaternium-7 Natural?<\/h2>\n
Cosmetic Safety and Acrylamide Residues<\/h2>\n
Is Polyquaternium-7 a Preservative?<\/h2>\n
Product Details<\/h2>\n
\nINCI Name:<\/strong> Polyquaternium-7
\nAlternative Name:<\/strong> PQ-7
\nCAS Number:<\/strong> 26590-05-6
\nIngredient Family:<\/strong> Cationic Conditioning Polymer
\nTypical Physical Form:<\/strong> Viscous Aqueous Liquid
\nTypical Appearance:<\/strong> Clear to Slightly Yellow
\nWater Solubility:<\/strong> Water-Soluble
\nPrimary Functions:<\/strong> Antistatic \/ Film Forming \/ Hair Conditioning
\nMain Applications:<\/strong> Shampoos, Hair Conditioners, Shower Gels, Body Washes and Personal-Care Formulations<\/p>\n
\nExact INCI Composition:<\/strong> Refer to Supplier Documentation
\nPreservative Content:<\/strong> Confirm with Supplier
\nViscosity:<\/strong> Refer to Supplier TDS
\npH:<\/strong> Grade-Dependent
\nPackage Size:<\/strong> Refer to Product Packaging<\/p>\nRaw Material Quality and Specifications<\/h2>\n
Stability Testing<\/h2>\n
Safety Information<\/h2>\n
Storage<\/h2>\n
Wholesale, Private Label & Contract Manufacturing<\/h2>\n