What Is Quaternium-82?
Quaternium-82 is a quaternary ammonium compound formally known as [2-bis(2-hydroxypropyl)amino]ethyl bis(2-hydroxypropyl)(methyl)ammonium methyl sulphate, dioleate (ester). Chemically it combines a positively charged nitrogen center with two oleic acid–based ester groups and several hydroxypropyl chains. The fatty acid part comes from plant-derived oleic acid while the hydroxypropyl sections are produced from propylene oxide, so manufacturers can source most of the raw materials from renewable vegetable oils.
The wider family of quaternary ammonium conditioners first appeared in hair care in the 1940s as a gentler alternative to harsh soap-based products. Quaternium-82 is a newer generation “quat” developed to pair the strong conditioning power of classic quats with better rinsability and a softer feel. It achieves this by attaching the quaternary core to flexible hydroxypropyl and oleate groups, which help it spread evenly and rinse without heavy buildup.
Industrial production starts with a diisopropanolamine backbone that is quaternised with methyl sulphate, giving the molecule its permanent positive charge. The intermediate then undergoes esterification with oleic acid to form the dioleate version used in cosmetics. The final product is usually supplied as a viscous liquid or paste that dissolves easily in water or alcohol.
You will mainly spot Quaternium-82 in rinse-off and leave-in hair products such as shampoos, conditioners, detangling sprays, hair masks and styling creams aimed at reducing frizz and boosting softness. It also appears in some anti-static body lotions and beard balms where smooth comb-through is desirable.
Quaternium-82’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose Quaternium-82 because it delivers several performance perks at low use levels
- Antistatic: The positive charge in Quaternium-82 neutralises the negative charges that build up on hair strands during washing and drying. This curbs flyaways, makes hair easier to style and helps styles stay put in dry or low-humidity conditions.
- Hair conditioning: Its fatty ester tails coat the cuticle in a thin, breathable layer that smooths rough spots, improves slip and reduces breakage during combing. The result is hair that feels softer, looks shinier and detangles with less effort.
Who Can Use Quaternium-82
Quaternium-82 is generally compatible with all skin and hair types. Its lightweight fatty ester structure gives slip without a greasy feel so it works for fine, oily or combination hair while still providing enough conditioning for dry or brittle strands. People with very sensitive or allergy-prone skin should proceed with caution because any quaternary ammonium compound can occasionally trigger irritation in this group, though reports are rare.
The ingredient is produced from plant-derived oleic acid and petroleum-free propylene oxide, with no animal sourced components, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians when used in products from cruelty-free brands.
Current safety assessments have not flagged Quaternium-82 as a risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women since it stays on the surface of hair and skin and is not readily absorbed. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any cosmetic product with their healthcare provider to be safe.
Quaternium-82 does not increase photosensitivity so there is no added need for special sun protection beyond everyday sunscreen habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Quaternium-82 vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation in individuals who are sensitive to cationic conditioners
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness, itching or rash in people with a specific allergy to quaternary ammonium compounds
- Eye irritation such as stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Build-up on very fine hair which can make strands feel weighed down if the product is not rinsed thoroughly
- Reduced effectiveness of anionic cleansers if heavy residues of Quaternium-82 remain and later interact with sulfate-based shampoos
If any discomfort or adverse reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 – Quaternium-82 is mostly water dispersible and designed to rinse away, leaving only a thin conditioning layer on hair rather than sitting on facial skin. It lacks the heavy, pore-blocking fatty chains common in highly comedogenic ingredients, so the risk of clogging pores is low.
Because of this low rating, the ingredient is generally considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts when used in hair or body products that may come into incidental contact with facial skin.
As with any cationic conditioner, buildup is possible if very high levels are left on the skin over time, but normal cleansing routines usually prevent this.
Summary
Quaternium-82 acts as an antistatic agent and hair conditioner. Its permanently positive charge neutralises static on hair strands while its oleate ester tails form a light smoothing film that improves slip, detangling and softness.
The ingredient sees moderate use: it is not yet a household name like silicones or classic quats, but formulators appreciate its balance of conditioning power and clean rinse, so it is appearing more often in modern shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins and beard products.
Current safety data show low irritation potential and no major systemic concerns, making Quaternium-82 a safe choice for most users. As with any new cosmetic product it is wise to perform a patch test to ensure personal compatibility.