Ingredient dictionary

Polyquaternium-7

This conditioning polymer, made from acrylamide and a positively charged monomer, gives slip, softness, and static control to hair and skin products. It is on the label of 29 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Polyquaternium-7 does

Conditions hair and reduces static
Adds slip for easier combing
Gives skin a smooth, soft feel

Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic polymer. Manufacturers build it by linking two monomers, acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride, into long chains. The second building block carries a positive charge, which is the key to how the ingredient works. Hair and skin carry a slight negative charge, so the positive charge pulls the polymer onto the surface.

Formulators use it because it helps products feel good on skin and hair. It can make hair easier to comb, reduce static, and leave skin feeling soft. You will often find it in shampoos and conditioners, and in body washes, cleansers, and body lotions. It dissolves easily in water and leaves a light, slippery feel on hair and skin.

Good for

Suits most hair and skin types, and people who want easier combing and softer-feeling skin after washing.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is Polyquaternium-7 safe to use?

Polyquaternium-7 is generally well tolerated and is used in many everyday products. Polymers like this are large molecules and do not soak deep into skin. If your skin is very sensitive, patch test any new product first.

Does Polyquaternium-7 cause buildup on hair?

Like other conditioning polymers, it can leave a light coating on hair if products build up over time. An occasional clarifying shampoo helps clear that coating, and using less product often helps too.