Polyquaternium-5: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Polyquaternium-5?

Polyquaternium-5 is a man-made polymer that carries a positive charge. Chemically it is built from small building blocks of acrylamide and a quaternary ammonium salt, then linked together into a long chain. The process starts with mixing the two monomers in water, triggering them to join into a smooth gel-like polymer. A final step called quaternization, done with methyl sulfate, locks in the positive charges that give the ingredient its special conditioning power.

The material was first explored in the 1960s when hair-care chemists looked for smoother, longer-lasting alternatives to natural gums. Its ability to cling to negatively charged hair and skin made it a quick hit in shampoos and conditioners, and it soon moved into styling products and creams.

Today you’ll spot Polyquaternium-5 in rinse-off and leave-in hair conditioners, detangling sprays, mousses, styling gels, anti-frizz serums, skin creams, sheet masks, hand lotions and lightweight moisturizers. In each formula it helps create a soft, flexible film that boosts feel and performance.

Polyquaternium-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient steps up product performance in two key ways

  • Antistatic  Its positive charge balances the natural negative charge on hair and some fabrics, cutting static flyaways and helping strands lie smoothly for a sleeker look
  • Film Forming  It lays down a thin, invisible layer that locks in moisture, adds light hold and improves spreadability so creams and gels glide on evenly without a greasy feel

Who Can Use Polyquaternium-5

Because it is lightweight and non-occlusive, Polyquaternium-5 plays well with all skin types including oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin. Its film is breathable and water-soluble so it rarely clogs pores or leaves a heavy residue. Extremely acne-prone users who react to most conditioners might still prefer a lighter formula but the ingredient itself is not considered problematic for breakouts.

The polymer is produced entirely from petrochemical or plant-derived raw materials with no animal by-products, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is also cruelty-free because animal testing is not required for this specific polymer in most regions.

Current safety information shows no special risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when Polyquaternium-5 is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare or haircare routine with a qualified healthcare provider to be certain it fits their individual needs.

The ingredient does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it will not increase the chance of sunburn or pigmentation issues. It is also odorless and compatible with most fragrances, colors and actives, giving formulators flexibility without raising extra risk for users.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to any cosmetic ingredient vary from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon responses when Polyquaternium-5 is applied topically. When used at typical levels in a well-formulated product most people will not notice any of these issues.

  • Mild skin or scalp irritation very rare and usually linked to high concentrations or damaged skin barrier
  • Contact allergy an uncommon sensitization that can show up as redness itching or small bumps
  • Eye irritation stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes especially with sprays or gels
  • Product buildup on hair dullness or limp feel if multiple styling products containing film formers are layered without proper cleansing

If any discomfort swelling or persistent irritation occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or pharmacist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 Polyquaternium-5 is a large, water-soluble polymer that rinses away easily and lays down only a light breathable film. Because it lacks oily or waxy components that can block pores it is considered non-comedogenic.

That makes it a low-risk choice for anyone who is prone to acne or breakouts. Only if it is blended with heavier occlusive ingredients could the overall formula become pore-clogging, not the polymer itself.

Summary

Polyquaternium-5 works mainly as an antistatic and film-forming agent. Its positive charge attracts it to negatively charged hair and skin, neutralising static and smoothing flyaways. At the same time it deposits an ultra-thin flexible layer that locks in light moisture, adds slip and provides gentle hold without a greasy feel.

While not the most famous conditioning polymer on the shelf it shows up steadily in shampoos, conditioners and a smattering of skin-care products because formulators like its balance of performance and lightness.

Current safety data class it as very low concern with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new product, a quick patch test on a small area of skin is still smart to rule out individual sensitivity.

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