Polyquarternium-11
SyntheticSafety Level
Completely safe
Max. concentration
Carcinogenicity
Allergy Factor
Category
Film former, Antistatic
Functions
Mitigation, Protective function, Blisk, Hair fixer
Description
Polyquaternium is widely used in hair care products due to its anti-static and moisturizing properties. It is also considered a film-former, providing shine and coverage to hair strands. It is a cationic conditioning ingredient that may have a low or moderate potential for accumulation. It can be removed using anionic (sulfate or olefin sulfonate) shampoos that do not contain polyquaternium. It is often used in shampoos for detangling and can be used in hair styling products as it provides light hold. Polyquaterniums are created with cationic (positive) charges, so they bind to your hair rather than just forming a passive film. This is good for hair that needs a strong film for hold or a slippery film for detangling. However, it is not helpful if the product accumulates on your hair. Some people may use polyquaternium ingredients without issue, but some of us accumulate them.