Common Name(s): Polyquaternium-78 cationic polymer,conditioning film-former,antistatic

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Provides cationic polymer substantive conditioning and antistatic from polyquaternium.

Why It's Used: Cationic conditioning polymer — polyquaternium polymers deposit on hair from electrostatic attraction to the negatively charged cuticle surface providing conditioning, antistatic, and shine enhancement.

How It Works: Cationic polymer backbone (varies by polyquaternium number: 78). substantive: cationic polymer deposits on negative hair/skin. conditioning: friction reducing film. antistatic. film-forming. styling properties. compatible with anionic/nonionic surfactants.

Typically Found In: Shampoos,conditioners,leave-in products

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – cosmetic active

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–2%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Commercially produced for cosmetic use. verify vegan/halal status with supplier.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Well-tolerated by most skin types.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile at recommended concentrations. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Standard skincare actives

Avoid Combining With: No known significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Cationic polymer substantive deposition mechanism: hair fibre has isoelectric point ph ~3.5 — at shampoo/conditioner ph 5-7, hair carries negative charge from aspartate/glutamate residues in cuticle proteins. polyquaternium's permanent positive quaternary ammonium groups undergo electrostatic attraction to the negative cuticle depositing during application. during rinsing, the deposited polymer film remains from reduced solubility at lower concentration — providing post-rinse conditioning from the electrostatically deposited film.

Last Verified: Cosing database,polyquaternium-78 cationic conditioning review

Primary Sources: 2026-03-12