Polyquaternium-24

What is Polyquaternium-24?

Polyquaternium-24 is a synthetic quaternary ammonium polymer, specifically a copolymer featuring quaternized vinylpyrrolidone and methacrylamidopropyltrimonium chloride units. This positively charged ingredient is commonly found in hair care products like conditioners, leave-in treatments, and styling gels. Its cationic nature allows it to adhere to the negatively charged keratin in hair, creating a conditioning layer that modifies surface properties. By improving electrical conductivity, it neutralizes static buildup, while its film-forming ability delivers a smooth sheath for enhanced texture and structure retention. Primarily used at low levels in rinse-off and leave-on formulations, it supports product performance without heavy residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Antistatic agent
Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.
Hair fixative
Provides style hold by forming a film on hair, helping maintain shape, reduce frizz, and improve durability in sprays, gels, and mousses.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.

Benefits

Minimizes static electricity for easier hair combing and reduced flyaways.

Deposits a lightweight film to boost shine and style longevity.

Enhances hair smoothness and manageability in daily routines.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with frizzy or static-prone hair.
Those with rare sensitivity to quaternary polymers.
Users of styling products needing humidity-resistant hold.
Individuals preferring silicone- and polymer-free formulas.
People seeking conditioning effects in shampoos and conditioners.
People experiencing scalp irritation from conditioning agents.

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from environmental health assessments.
  • Recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by expert review panels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyquaternium-24

What does Polyquaternium-24 do in hair products?

It acts as an antistatic agent, film former, and fixative to smooth hair, control flyaways, and maintain styles.

Is Polyquaternium-24 safe for skin and hair?

It carries a low safety rating and is approved for cosmetic use with minimal irritation concerns.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, making it suitable for scalp and skin-contact products.

Products with Polyquaternium-24