Polyquaternium-10

Polyquaternium 10 is a range of polymeric quaternary ammonium salts of hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) reacted with trimethyl ammonium substituted epoxide. Polyquaternium 10 solutions are non-Newtonian and are commercially available 1) in several viscosity grades depending on their molecular weights (they contribute to viscosity of formulations), and 2) with“high” to “moderate”cationic substitution. In vivo tests showed that these cationic cellulosic polymers protect the skin from aggression by anionic surfactants.

polyquaternium-10 is a cellulose polymer and conditioning agent used in skin-conditioning formulations.
There are numerous cationic polymers that provide conditioning benefits, especially improved wet combing and reduced static charge. Important examples of these polymers are Polyquaternium-10, a quaternized hydroxyethylcellulose polymer; Polyquaternium-7, a Hair Conditioners 339 copolymer of diallyldimethylammonium chloride and acrylamide; Polyquaternium-11, a copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate quaternized with dimethyl sulfate; Polyquaternium-16, a copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and quaternized vinylimidazole; and Polyquaternium-6, a homopolymer of diallyldimethylammonium chloride.

Polyquaternium-10 is generally considered to be safe for topical use. It is mild, non-irritant and non-sensitizing to the skin, hence used in a wide range of cosmetic products. At 2% concentration in the skincare and haircare formulation, it is non-irritant and does not show any signs of allergic reaction on your skin. Hence Polyquaternium-10 is considered to be safe for use in cosmetics at 2% concentration. At 5% concentration, it is known to show mild irritation to your skin and eyes. Polyquaternium-10 is considered to be entirely safe for use at 2% concentration or below. Anything above it can cause slight irritation to your skin and eyes.