Common Name(s): Polyquaternium-79 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 โ 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: 79). 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 โ cosmetic active
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%โ2%
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 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ 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: 1โ2.
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 โ 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 โ providing post-rinse conditioning from the electrostatically deposited film.
Last Verified: Cosing database,polyquaternium-79 cationic conditioning review
Primary Sources: 2026-03-12
