Polyquaternium-47

What is Polyquaternium-47?

Polyquaternium-47 is a synthetic, water-soluble cationic polymer composed of acrylic acid derivatives and methacrylamidopropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride units. This quaternary ammonium compound carries a positive charge, enabling strong adhesion to negatively charged hair cuticles and skin surfaces. Primarily featured in hair care formulations such as conditioners, styling gels, mousses, and sprays, it also appears in skin care products like lotions and sunscreens. In products, it functions by depositing a thin, elastic film that locks in moisture, repels humidity, and maintains structure without rigidity. This mechanism supports prolonged style retention and a silky texture, while its amphoteric nature aids compatibility in various pH-balanced formulas. Typically incorporated at trace levels, it enhances sensory qualities like slip and detangling during application.

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:

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.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Hair fixing

Improves style retention by depositing film-forming polymers that hold hair in place while balancing stiffness, flexibility, and humidity resistance.

Benefits

Delivers flexible hold and frizz control for styled hair.

Promotes a smooth, soft feel on skin and hair surfaces.

Boosts product durability against humidity and water exposure.

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 curly or frizzy hair seeking style retention.	Those with known sensitivities to quaternary ammonium polymers.
Users of styling products needing humidity resistance.	Individuals preferring silicone-free or polymer-minimal formulations.
People desiring conditioned texture in daily hair or skin routines.	Users experiencing contact dermatitis from similar conditioning agents.

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard for cosmetic use by expert reviews.
Shows minimal comedogenic potential and broad compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyquaternium-47

What products commonly contain Polyquaternium-47?

Found in hair styling gels, mousses, conditioners, and skin lotions for film-forming effects.

Is it suitable for daily use?

Yes, at typical cosmetic levels, it supports routine styling and conditioning.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore blockages.