Polyquaternium-28

What is Polyquaternium-28?

Polyquaternium-28 is a synthetic cationic copolymer made from vinylpyrrolidone and methacrylamidopropyl trimethylammonium chloride. Primarily featured in hair care items like conditioners, leave-in treatments, and styling sprays, it works by forming positively charged chains that bind to negatively charged hair surfaces. This interaction neutralizes static buildup, allowing hair strands to slide past each other for better combability and reduced tangles. The polymer lays down a sheer film over the hair cuticle, sealing it to lock in moisture, amplify shine, and offer lightweight structure for styles. Its film-forming ability contributes to water-resistant finishes in products, helping maintain appearance longer without heaviness or flaking typical of heavier resins.

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.
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.
Hair fixative
Provides style hold by forming a film on hair, helping maintain shape, reduce frizz, and improve durability in sprays, gels, and mousses.

Benefits

Minimizes static electricity for flyaway-free hair.

Boosts manageability and detangling in conditioners.

Delivers flexible hold and shine in styling aids.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with frizzy or static-prone hair.
Those sensitive to quaternary ammonium compounds.
Individuals seeking smoother, shinier strands.
People with scalp irritation prone to reactions.
Users wanting light styling hold without stiffness.
Individuals avoiding synthetic polymers.

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from safety assessments.
  • Generally well-tolerated in rinse-off and leave-on hair products.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyquaternium-28

What does Polyquaternium-28 do in hair products?

It acts as an antistatic agent and film former to reduce flyaways, improve smoothness, and provide hold.

Is Polyquaternium-28 safe for regular use?

Safety reviews indicate it poses low risk in typical cosmetic amounts.

Where is it commonly found?

In conditioners, shampoos, and styling products for hair care.