Polyquaternium-10
What is it?
Polyquaternium-10 is a white granular powder with a characteristic amine odor. In cosmetics and personal care products, it is used mainly in the formulation of hair care products, lotions and makeup.
Safety Information
The safety of Polyquaternium-10 has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated the scientific data and concluded that Polyquaternium-10 was safe as a cosmetic ingredient. In 2005, the CIR Expert Panel considered available new data on Polyquaternium-10 and reaffirmed the above conclusion.
Why is it used in cosmetics and personal care products?
When used in hair care products, Polyquaternium-10 can reduce static electricity. It enhances the appearance and feel of hair, by increasing hair body, suppleness, or sheen, or by improving the texture of hair that has been damaged physically or by chemical treatment.
Scientific facts:
Polyquaternium-10 is also known as Quaternium-19. It adsorbs well to proteinaceous surfaces, such as the proteins in hair. It is in the chemical class known as quaternary ammonium compounds (generally referred to as a “Quat”). These compounds are positively charged tetra-substituted nitrogen derivatives.
