What Is Polyquaternium-28?
Polyquaternium-28 is a synthetic conditioning agent made by linking two smaller building blocks: a quaternary ammonium compound that carries a positive charge and vinylpyrrolidone that helps it form flexible films on skin or hair. Chemists first developed it in the 1970s while searching for gentle alternatives to traditional hair‐setting resins. By tweaking the ratio of the two core ingredients they created a water-soluble polymer that clings lightly to hair or skin, tames static and resists humidity.
The manufacturing process starts with quaternization of a trimethylamine derivative to create the positively charged monomer. This monomer is then polymerized with vinylpyrrolidone in water under carefully controlled heat and pH, producing a clear viscous solution. Because the polymer is already dissolved, it blends easily into cosmetic formulas without extra solvents.
Today Polyquaternium-28 appears in a wide range of products: rinse-off and leave-in conditioners, shampoos that promise frizz control, styling gels, curl creams, makeup primers, sheet masks, setting sprays and even some hand and body lotions where a light film can improve moisture retention and feel.
Polyquaternium-28’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns a spot on labels because it can improve both product performance and the user experience.
- Antistatic: The positive charge of Polyquaternium-28 neutralizes negative charges that build up on hair fibers during washing or brushing. This reduces flyaways, makes hair easier to comb and helps styles stay smoother in dry or windy conditions.
- Film forming: After the water in a product evaporates the polymer leaves behind a thin breathable layer. On hair this lightweight film adds softness, subtle hold and protection against humidity. On skin it creates a silky finish that can lock in hydration and help makeup or active ingredients stay put for longer.
Because it is water soluble and forms a weightless film Polyquaternium-28 is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, oily or sensitive skin. It does not clog pores and its positive charge helps it rinse away cleanly so it is unlikely to aggravate acne-prone complexions. Extremely sensitive or compromised skin could react to any new ingredient but recorded cases are rare.
The polymer is produced by chemical synthesis with no animal-derived raw materials, making it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. As always the overall formula must also be cruelty free for the finished product to meet vegan standards.
No published research links Polyquaternium-28 to risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It stays on the surface of skin or hair and is not known to penetrate deeply. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a healthcare professional to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daily sun protection is still recommended because ultraviolet rays damage skin in many other ways.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Polyquaternium-28 can vary. The following points list potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic concentrations and most users experience none of them.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people already sensitized to quaternary ammonium compounds
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Build-up on very fine hair leading to a weighed-down feel if products are layered without proper cleansing
If you notice any discomfort or other adverse reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Polyquaternium-28 is a large water-soluble polymer that sits on the surface of skin then rinses away easily, so it has virtually no ability to lodge inside pores or mix with sebum. Because it lacks oily or waxy components and carries a positive charge that keeps it dispersed in water, the risk of pore blockage is considered negligible.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Although the ingredient itself is non-comedogenic, remember that the overall formula can still clog pores if it contains heavier oils, butters or pigments.
Summary
Polyquaternium-28 acts mainly as an antistatic agent and lightweight film former. Its positive charge neutralizes the static that causes flyaways while its flexible polymer chain leaves a thin breathable layer that boosts softness, light hold and moisture retention on hair or skin.
The ingredient enjoyed a surge of popularity in the late 1990s with frizz-fighting shampoos and remains a steady, if not flashy, workhorse in many modern hair conditioners, styling gels and some skin primers where a smooth finish is desired.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization at the levels used in cosmetics. Still, anyone trying a new product should perform a quick patch test to check personal tolerance before applying it more broadly.