Ingredient review

Quaternium-87

INCI: Quaternium-87

Quaternium-87 is a synthetic conditioning ingredient that helps reduce static and soften hair, but it may not suit very sensitive scalps.

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In plain English

Quaternium-87 is a man-made ingredient that sticks to hair and skin to reduce static electricity and make strands feel smoother. It works by coating the surface with a thin, positively charged layer that neutralizes negative charges from friction, like brushing or drying. In skincare, it can add a silky feel but is mostly used in hair products.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.5Good
3.5/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Quaternium-87 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Quaternium-87.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

Quaternium-87 is a quaternary ammonium compound, a type of positively charged molecule designed to condition and detangle hair by reducing static cling.

How it works

Its positive charge binds to negatively charged hair and skin surfaces, forming a thin film that reduces friction, static, and flyaways. This film also helps lock in moisture and improves combability.

Pros

Effective static reducer

Quaternium-87 quickly neutralizes static electricity, making hair easier to style and less prone to flyaways, especially in dry or cold weather.

Improves combability

It coats each hair strand, reducing friction during brushing or combing, which can help prevent breakage and tangles.

Cons and cautions

Potential buildup

With repeated use, especially without clarifying shampoos, Quaternium-87 can accumulate on hair, leading to dullness or limpness over time.

Scalp sensitivity risk

Though generally mild, some people with sensitive or compromised scalps may experience itching or irritation from this synthetic quat.

Best for

  • People with frizzy or static-prone hair
  • Those looking for a lightweight conditioner

Use caution if

  • Individuals with very sensitive or irritated scalps
  • Those following strict 'no synthetic' routines

Usage tips

Use a clarifying shampoo once a week if you use products with Quaternium-87 daily.
Pair with a moisturizing conditioner to balance the conditioning effect.
Avoid applying directly to the scalp if you have known sensitivity to quats.

Safety summary

Quaternium-87 is considered safe for most people at typical use levels. Mild irritation is possible for sensitive individuals, but serious reactions are rare. It is not a known carcinogen or endocrine disruptor.

Research notes

Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have found quaternary ammonium compounds like Quaternium-87 to be safe in rinse-off and leave-on products at low concentrations. Human patch tests show low irritation potential.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US and EU within concentration limits; considered safe when used as directed.
Common uses
Conditioners, Leave-in treatments, Shampoos, Body washes
Environmental note
Quaternium-87 is not readily biodegradable and may persist in aquatic environments; look for products with eco-friendly alternatives if this is a concern.

Good to know

  • Quaternium-87 is often found in 'smoothing' or 'anti-frizz' hair products.
  • It is not the same as Quaternium-15, which is a formaldehyde releaser and is rarely used today.

Common questions

What is Quaternium-87 in beauty products?

Quaternium-87 is a man-made ingredient that sticks to hair and skin to reduce static electricity and make strands feel smoother. It works by coating the surface with a thin, positively charged layer that neutralizes negative charges from friction, like brushing or drying. In skincare, it can add a silky feel but is mostly used in hair products.

What does Quaternium-87 do in a beauty product?

Its positive charge binds to negatively charged hair and skin surfaces, forming a thin film that reduces friction, static, and flyaways. This film also helps lock in moisture and improves combability.

Is Quaternium-87 safe for most people?

Quaternium-87 is considered safe for most people at typical use levels. Mild irritation is possible for sensitive individuals, but serious reactions are rare. It is not a known carcinogen or endocrine disruptor.

Who should be careful with Quaternium-87?

Individuals with very sensitive or irritated scalps Those following strict 'no synthetic' routines

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Quaternary Ammonium CompoundsOpenPubChem - Quaternium-87OpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) - Quaternium-87Open

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.