Polyquaternium 10

Polyquaternium 10 (CAS 68610-92-4), also known as PQ-10, is a cationic cellulose-derived polymer used across personal care and industrial formulations. It functions as a conditioning agent, film former, and rheology modifier.

The polymer works by depositing a protective charge onto negatively charged surfaces such as hair and skin. In rinse-off and leave-on hair care products like shampoos and conditioners, it reduces static and improves combability.

It also enhances both wet and dry feel in detangling sprays. Skin care formulators incorporate it into lotions and cleansers where its film-forming properties help retain moisture at the skin surface for better hydration.

In textile processing, it improves fiber softness and antistatic performance during finishing operations. Paper and leather treatments use it as a surface-conditioning agent to modify charge balance and improve substrate uniformity.

This versatile chemical is supplied as a white to off-white powder or granule. It is available in multiple viscosity grades, including low, medium, and high, allowing formulators to select the appropriate molecular weight.

These grades help meet specific rheological targets for various industrial applications. Cosmetic-grade material conforming to standard industry specifications is the primary commercial form available for global distribution.