What Is Polyquaternium-113?
Polyquaternium-113 is a synthetic polymer made by reacting quaternized vinylimidazolium compounds with acrylamide units. The result is a water-soluble, positively charged molecule that clings to the negatively charged surface of hair. It does not come from a plant or animal source but is created in controlled factory settings, giving formulators steady quality and purity. The material first appeared in hair-care research during the late 1990s when chemists wanted an alternative to older conditioning agents that sometimes weighed hair down. Today manufacturers produce Polyquaternium-113 in large reactors where monomers are mixed, initiated to start polymerization, then purified and dried into a fine powder or viscous liquid concentrate. You will most often find it in rinse-off and leave-in conditioners, hair masks, color-protecting treatments and styling creams that promise smoother strands and easier detangling.
Polyquaternium-113’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
As a hair conditioning ingredient Polyquaternium-113 forms a thin, even film on each strand that improves slip, reduces static and helps seal in moisture. This light coating makes hair feel softer, appear shinier and become easier to comb both wet and dry. Because it binds well to damaged or chemically treated areas it can also help protect color and lessen breakage during styling.
Who Can Use Polyquaternium-113
Polyquaternium-113 is considered gentle and can be used on all scalp and hair types including oily, dry, curly, straight and color-treated strands. Its lightweight film does not clog pores or leave a greasy feel so even people with sensitive or easily irritated scalps usually tolerate it well. There are no known concerns for any specific skin type.
The polymer is made entirely in a laboratory from petrochemical building blocks so it contains no animal-derived material. This makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not expected to face special risks when using hair products that include Polyquaternium-113 because the ingredient stays on the surface of the hair and is not readily absorbed. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the product label to a doctor before use to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and has no known interactions with sun exposure. It can be used year-round without extra sun precautions beyond normal UV protection habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polyquaternium-113 differ from person to person. The following are potential side effects that could occur, although they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used properly.
- Mild scalp itching or redness – may happen in very sensitive individuals
- Flaking or buildup – possible if heavy amounts are layered without thorough rinsing
- Eye irritation – can occur if the product accidentally runs into the eyes during application or rinsing
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare but possible for people with a specific sensitivity to quaternary ammonium compounds
If any discomfort, rash or irritation develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Polyquaternium-113 is a large water-soluble polymer that sits on the surface of hair then rinses away easily. It contains no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores and its positive charge helps it bind to hair rather than skin. For these reasons it earns a comedogenic score of zero.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone individuals.
Very rare instances of follicular buildup along the hairline can occur if multiple styling products layer up, so washing the scalp regularly helps prevent this.
Summary
Polyquaternium-113 is used in hair care to condition strands, reduce static, boost shine and improve combability. It does this by forming a thin positively charged film that clings to damaged areas, smooths the cuticle and locks in light moisture without weighing hair down.
While not as famous as silicones or older quats, it is increasingly found in modern conditioners, masks and leave-ins that promise a lightweight feel and color protection.
Overall safety is high: it is non-comedogenic, generally non-irritating and vegan friendly. Still, it is wise to patch test any new product to rule out personal sensitivities before full use.