Polyquaternium 10 – Premium Conditioning & Thickening Agent for Hair & Skin Formulations

Polyquaternium-10 is a versatile, water-soluble polymer derived from hydroxyethylcellulose that adds exceptional conditioning and thickening properties to formulations. This cationic polymer, also known as Polyquat 10, is commonly used in haircare products like shampoos, conditioners, and hair gels, as well as in select skincare products to improve viscosity and create a smooth, luxurious feel.

Polyquaternium-10 readily adheres to hair and skin proteins, providing improved combability, reduced breakage, and better curl retention, while also enhancing the overall texture of formulations.

Key Benefits

• Effective Conditioning: Binds to hair proteins, enhancing wet combability, reducing breakage, and improving overall hair feel. Excellent for both wash-out and leave-in products.

• Thickening Agent: Increases viscosity without the need for additional thickeners, making it useful in both haircare and skincare formulations.

• Improves Slip: In skincare products, even small amounts provide a smoother, more elegant feel to serums, lotions, and gels.

• Curl Retention: Enhances curl definition and retention in hair products, making it ideal for curly or wavy hair types.

• Compatible with Multiple Systems: Works well in anionic, cationic, nonionic, and amphoteric systems, making it highly versatile in formulations.

Technical Specifications

• INCI Name: Polyquaternium-10

• CAS Number: 68610-92-4

• Appearance: White to pale yellowish powder with a faint odor

• Solubility: Water-soluble

• Charge: Cationic (positively charged)

Recommended Usage Rates

• Haircare: Use at 0.2% to 2% depending on the formulation and desired conditioning properties. In shampoos, a typical usage rate is around 0.5%.

• Skincare: Use around 0.05% to 0.5% in serums, lotions, or other products where a smoother feel or thicker viscosity is desired. Start with lower percentages and increase as needed for best results.

Applications

Shampoos & Conditioners

Improves comb-through, reduces breakage, and enhances the overall feel and appearance of hair. Especially beneficial in curly hair formulations due to its curl retention capabilities.

Hair Gels & Mousses

Provides long-lasting conditioning and viscosity to create more defined, manageable styles.

Skincare

In serums, creams, and lotions, Polyquaternium-10 boosts viscosity and slip, giving a more elegant, luxurious feel to the skin. It’s also known for improving product application and sensory experience.

Formulation Tips

• Pre-Disperse: Always pre-disperse Polyquaternium-10 in a non-water liquid, such as glycerin or a light oil, before incorporating it into the water phase. This ensures even distribution and helps prevent clumping.

• Hydration: Stir and allow Polyquaternium-10 to fully hydrate in the water phase. You can speed up the process using a mini-mixer or immersion blender.

• Hot or Cold Processing: Polyquaternium-10 can be used in both hot and cold process formulations, making it adaptable for various production methods.

• Combination with Other Ingredients: For additional conditioning benefits, Polyquaternium-10 pairs well with BTMS-50 or Behentrimonium Chloride. For extra thickening, add a non-cationic thickener like xanthan gum or hydroxyethylcellulose.

Storage & Shelf Life

• Storage: Keep in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Shelf Life: When stored properly, Polyquaternium-10 has a shelf life of at least 2 years.

Safety Guidelines

• External Use Only: Polyquaternium-10 is intended for cosmetic formulations and should not be ingested or used internally.

• Non-toxic, non-irritating, and safe for daily-use hair and skincare formulations when used as directed.

Why Choose Polyquaternium-10?

Whether you’re formulating a deeply conditioning hair mask or a silky-smooth facial serum, Polyquaternium-10 offers a wide range of benefits from enhancing product texture to improving the sensory experience.

Its conditioning properties make it an essential ingredient for both leave-in and wash-out haircare products, while its ability to thicken and improve slip makes it valuable in skincare formulations.

As a reliable, multi-functional ingredient, Polyquaternium-10 is a must-have for professional formulators and cosmetic manufacturers looking to create high-performance, elegant, and stable formulations.

FAQs About Polyquaternium-10

1. What is Polyquaternium-10?
   Polyquaternium-10 is a cationic polymer derived from hydroxyethylcellulose that provides conditioning, thickening, and slip in haircare and skincare products.
2. Is Polyquaternium-10 safe for hair?
   Yes. Polyquaternium-10 for hair is widely used to reduce breakage, improve combability, and enhance shine and softness.
3. What products can Polyquaternium-10 be used in?
   It’s suitable for shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, mousses, serums, and creams for both hair and skin.
4. What is the difference between Polyquaternium and Polyquaternium-10?
   “Polyquaternium” refers to a family of conditioning polymers, while Polyquaternium-10 is one of the most commonly used for moisture, texture, and anti-frizz benefits.
5. Where can I buy Polyquaternium-10?
   You can buy Polyquaternium-10 in bulk from Natural Bulk Supplies, a trusted supplier for cosmetic-grade conditioning polymers.