At a glance
- CAS number
- 53568-66-4
- INCI name
- Polyquaternium-10
- Function
- film_former, conditioning agent, thickener, antistatic
- Typical use level
- 0.1%–2%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 3–9
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Quaternized Hydroxyethylcellulose Cellulose, 2-hydroxyethyl, reaction product with trimethylammonium chloride JR-400 Ucare Polymer JR HEC Quat
Compatibility
Works well with:
Glycerin Panthenol Hydrolyzed Keratin Dimethicone Cetrimonium Chloride Behentrimonium Methosulfate
Use caution with:
High-molecular-weight anionic polymers Carbomer Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
As a cationic polymer, Polyquaternium-10 can form complexes or precipitates when combined with anionic polymers such as Carbomer or high concentrations of anionic surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, leading to turbidity or phase separation. It is best used alongside nonionic or other cationic ingredients. In rinse-off formulas, pairing with mild anionic surfactants at balanced charge ratios can work if carefully optimized.
Formulation notes
Polyquaternium-10 is a cationic cellulose-derived polymer widely used in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-on hair care products to deposit a conditioning film on hair and skin, reducing static, improving combability, and imparting a smooth feel. Its positive charge allows substantive adsorption onto negatively charged hair and skin surfaces, especially effective in rinse-off applications where other conditioning agents wash away. It is generally considered safe and well-tolerated; however, formulators should avoid combining it with strongly anionic ingredients to prevent formulation instability.
Frequently asked questions
What is Polyquaternium-10?
Polyquaternium-10 is a film_former, conditioning agent, thickener, antistatic used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.1%–2%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 3–9 range.
What is Polyquaternium-10 used for?
Polyquaternium-10 is used as film_former, conditioning agent, thickener, antistatic in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Polyquaternium-10?
Polyquaternium-10 is typically used at 0.1%–2% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Polyquaternium-10?
The CAS registry number for Polyquaternium-10 is 53568-66-4. Its INCI name is Polyquaternium-10.
At what pH is Polyquaternium-10 stable?
Polyquaternium-10 is generally stable in the pH 3–9 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Polyquaternium-10?
Polyquaternium-10 works well with Glycerin, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Dimethicone, Cetrimonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Methosulfate. Use caution when combining it with High-molecular-weight anionic polymers, Carbomer, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.
Related ingredients
- Acrylates CopolymerFilm Former
- Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerThickener
- AmodimethiconeEmollient
- Cocamidopropyl BetaineSurfactant
- Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerThickener
- HydroxyethylcelluloseThickener