What Is Polyquaternium-107?
Polyquaternium-107 is a man-made polymer derived from a blend of three building blocks: phosphorylcholine glycol methacrylate, stearyl methacrylate and dimethylaminopropyl acrylamide. These units give the final ingredient a positive charge that lets it cling to hair and skin surfaces. The first versions appeared in the late 1990s when chemists were looking for gentler conditioning agents that rinsed out easily and left less buildup. Manufacturing starts with mixing the three monomers in water, then triggering a controlled reaction called polymerization that links them into long, flexible chains. After purification and drying, the powder or liquid concentrate is ready for use. Brands add Polyquaternium-107 to rinse-off and leave-on hair masks, conditioners, shampoos, styling creams, anti-frizz serums and some all-in-one shower products where smoothness and slip are key.
Polyquaternium-107’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose Polyquaternium-107 mainly for its role as a hair conditioning agent. Its positive charge neutralizes the negative sites on damaged hair cuticles, helping the strands lie flat. This leads to easier detangling, a softer feel and added shine while also cutting down on static so hair looks less frizzy. Because the polymer forms a light film that rinses off without heaviness, it suits daily use and a wide range of hair types from fine to coarse.
Who Can Use Polyquaternium-107
Polyquaternium-107 is gentle enough for most hair and scalp types, including dry, oily and color-treated. People with very sensitive or allergy-prone skin may want to be cautious because any quaternary ammonium salt can occasionally cause irritation, though this is uncommon.
The ingredient is fully synthetic with no animal-derived components, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences. As always, certification of the finished product depends on the brand’s overall policies on animal testing.
No data suggest Polyquaternium-107 poses risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in rinse-off or leave-on hair products. Absorption through the skin is minimal, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting new personal care items.
Polyquaternium-107 does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no added need for sun protection beyond normal daily habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyquaternium-107 differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation such as itching or redness
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to quaternary ammonium compounds
- Eye stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Hair feeling weighed down if applied in very high concentrations or not rinsed thoroughly
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Polyquaternium-107 is a large, water-soluble polymer that does not penetrate pores or mix with skin oils, so it has virtually no potential to block follicles. Because it tends to rinse away cleanly and leaves only a sheer, breathable film, it is considered non-comedogenic. This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. No published data links the ingredient to an increase in blackheads, whiteheads or similar issues, even when used in leave-on styling products.
Its low usage levels in formulas and its positive charge, which keeps it mostly on the hair shaft rather than the skin surface, further reduce any clogging risk.
Summary
Polyquaternium-107 works mainly as a hair conditioner, detangler and anti-static agent. The polymer carries a positive charge that latches onto the negatively charged damaged spots on hair cuticles, creating a smooth, even surface that reflects light for added shine and silky slip while helping strands resist frizz and breakage. The lightweight film it forms rinses off easily so hair feels soft without buildup.
Although it is not as talked about as silicones or classic quats, Polyquaternium-107 appears in a growing number of shampoos, conditioners and styling creams because formulators value its balance of performance and mildness.
Current safety reviews show a very low irritation and sensitization profile when used as directed. Still, skin chemistry differs from person to person, so it is wise to patch test any new product that features this or any other unfamiliar ingredient.