Quaternium-87

What is Quaternium-87?

Quaternium-87 belongs to the quaternary ammonium compounds, featuring a positively charged nitrogen atom linked to four alkyl groups, typically derived from fatty alcohols through quaternization reactions. This synthetic ingredient finds primary application in hair care cosmetics, such as shampoos, conditioners, and detanglers. Its cationic nature enables strong adsorption onto the negatively charged keratin surface of hair, forming a protective film that lubricates strands, minimizes friction during combing, and imparts a smooth, shiny appearance. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension to emulsify sebum and residues, supporting effective yet non-stripping cleansing. In formulations, it also contributes antistatic effects, preventing flyaways, and enhances overall product performance by stabilizing emulsions and improving wet combability 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:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.

Benefits

Improves hair manageability by reducing friction and static.

Supports gentle cleansing through surfactant action.

Enhances hair shine and softness in rinse-off products.

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 with sensitivity to quaternary ammonium compounds.
Individuals washing hair frequently who need conditioning.
People experiencing scalp irritation from similar agents.
Users seeking lightweight, effective hair care formulas.
Individuals preferring quat-free personal care products.

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from environmental working group assessments.
  • Typically used in rinse-off products at safe levels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Quaternium-87

What is Quaternium-87 used for?

It serves as a hair conditioner and surfactant in shampoos and conditioners to improve softness and aid cleansing.

Is Quaternium-87 comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

How does it benefit hair?

It reduces static, enhances shine, and eases detangling by coating hair strands.