Ingredient review
Polyquaternium-47
INCI: POLYQUATERNIUM-47
A gentle conditioning polymer that smooths hair and skin without heavy buildup, ideal for sensitive scalps.
In plain English
Polyquaternium-47 is a synthetic polymer that helps condition hair and skin by forming a thin, flexible film. It reduces static electricity (flyaways) and makes hair feel softer and easier to comb. On skin, it can provide a smooth, non-greasy feel. Because it's water-soluble and doesn't build up heavily, it's often used in products for fine or easily weighed-down hair.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Polyquaternium-47 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Polyquaternium-47.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Polyquaternium-47 is a cationic (positively charged) polymer made from acrylic acid, methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride, and methyl acrylate. It belongs to the polyquaternium family of conditioning agents widely used in personal care.
How it works
Its positive charge helps it bind to negatively charged hair and skin surfaces, forming a thin, flexible film. This film smooths the cuticle, reduces static, and improves wet and dry combing. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly and can boost the feel of a product without leaving a sticky residue.
Pros
Light conditioning
Provides noticeable softness and detangling without the heavy, greasy feel of some oils or silicones, making it great for fine hair.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated even on sensitive scalps and skin, with a low risk of irritation or clogged pores.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a synthetic polymer, it may not appeal to those seeking fully natural or biodegradable formulations.
Potential buildup over time
While less buildup-prone than some polyquaterniums, repeated use without clarifying can still leave a slight film on very fine or low-porosity hair.
Best for
- People with fine or normal hair who want conditioning without weight
- Those with sensitive scalps or skin who need a mild conditioner
Use caution if
- Those who prefer entirely natural or biodegradable ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyquaternium-47 has a strong safety profile with low irritation and sensitization potential. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by expert panels.
Research notes
Studies on polyquaternium-47 focus on its conditioning efficacy and safety. It is well-documented in cosmetic chemistry literature as a mild, effective conditioning agent. No significant safety concerns have been raised in peer-reviewed research.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Conditioners, Leave-in treatments, Styling products, Shampoos, Body washes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not readily biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is often removed during wastewater treatment.
Good to know
- Polyquaternium-47 is often chosen for its compatibility with anionic surfactants (common in shampoos).
- It is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.
Common questions
What is Polyquaternium-47 in beauty products?
Polyquaternium-47 is a synthetic polymer that helps condition hair and skin by forming a thin, flexible film. It reduces static electricity (flyaways) and makes hair feel softer and easier to comb. On skin, it can provide a smooth, non-greasy feel. Because it's water-soluble and doesn't build up heavily, it's often used in products for fine or easily weighed-down hair.
What does Polyquaternium-47 do in a beauty product?
Its positive charge helps it bind to negatively charged hair and skin surfaces, forming a thin, flexible film. This film smooths the cuticle, reduces static, and improves wet and dry combing. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly and can boost the feel of a product without leaving a sticky residue.
Is Polyquaternium-47 safe for most people?
Polyquaternium-47 has a strong safety profile with low irritation and sensitization potential. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by expert panels.
Who should be careful with Polyquaternium-47?
Those who prefer entirely natural or biodegradable ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.