Polyquaternium-47: Advanced Conditioning Polymer for Modern Hair and Skin Care

Technical Introduction

Polyquaternium-47 is a cationic copolymer derived from acrylamide and quaternary ammonium compounds. It is specifically designed to provide conditioning, film-forming, and anti-static benefits in hair and skin formulations. Compared to other polyquaterniums, PQ-47 is considered a higher-performance grade, giving superior deposition, softness, and manageability at lower concentrations.

• INCI Name: Polyquaternium-47

• Chemical Type: Cationic copolymer (synthetic)

• Appearance: Clear to slightly opalescent viscous liquid

• Charge: Strongly cationic (quaternary ammonium)

• Solubility: Water-soluble, stable in most surfactant systems

• Primary Role: Conditioning, deposition aid, film formation

Applications

1. Hair Care

• Shampoos → Provides rich conditioning without weighing hair down.

• Conditioners → Enhances detangling, softness, and frizz control.

• Hair Masks & Treatments → Improves deposition of actives and long-lasting smoothness.

• Styling Products → Adds hold, shine, and protection against humidity.

2. Skin Care

• Body Washes & Shower Gels → Improves skin after-feel and reduces dryness.

• Facial Cleansers → Enhances mildness and moisturization.

• Lotions & Creams → Provides a protective film for hydration.

3. Other Uses

• Baby care products → Provides mild conditioning suitable for delicate hair/skin.

• Premium hair color & chemical treatment aftercare → Helps repair damaged cuticles.

✅ Advantages

• Superior hair conditioning → Smoother, silkier feel compared to PQ-7 or PQ-22.

• High deposition efficiency → Bonds strongly to negatively charged hair and skin.

• Reduces combing force → Prevents breakage and tangling.

• Anti-frizz and anti-static → Keeps hair manageable under humid conditions.

• Lightweight → Does not cause buildup or greasiness.

• Enhances active delivery → Improves deposition of oils, proteins, and silicones.

• Improves foam creaminess in cleansing formulations.

⚙️ Technical Specifications (Typical Cosmetic Grade)

⚠️ Safety & Regulatory Notes

• Safe for cosmetic use at recommended levels.

• Non-toxic and non-sensitizing in personal care applications.

• Globally accepted in EU, USA, and Asian cosmetic markets.

• Biodegradability is moderate compared to natural-derived polyquaterniums.

❓ FAQ

Q1: How is Polyquaternium-47 different from Polyquaternium-10 or Polyquaternium-22?
PQ-47 provides premium conditioning and better deposition at lower levels, while PQ-10 is cellulose-based and PQ-22 is amphoteric (more universal compatibility).

Q2: Does PQ-47 cause buildup on hair?
No, it forms a lightweight film that rinses easily, avoiding heaviness.

Q3: Can it be used in sulfate-free shampoos?
Yes, PQ-47 is compatible with sulfate-free and mild cleansing systems.

Q4: Is it suitable for fine or thin hair?
Yes, because it delivers conditioning without greasiness or weight.

Q5: What is the ideal concentration?
0.3–0.7% in shampoos for conditioning; up to 2% in intensive hair masks or treatments.