What is Polyquaternium-10 and how does it compare across the series?
Polyquaternium-10 (CAS 68610-92-4) is a cationic conditioning polymer in the INCI Polyquaternium family; its listed cosmetic functions include conditioning, film formation and thickening. Like Polyquaternium-7 it lists a thickening/rheology role, distinguishing it from the conditioning-and-film-forming-only grades (PQ-2, 11, 28). Bulk quantities are sourced to specification.
POLYQUATERNIUM-10- ▸ Hair conditioning: Cationic substantivity for wet and dry combability
- ▸ Antistatic: Reduces static charge on hair fibers
- ▸ Film forming: Deposits a conditioning film in rinse-off and leave-on systems
- ▸ Viscosity control: Contributes body to surfactant-based formulations
| Grade | CAS No. | Listed functions | Repeat-unit formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyquaternium-2 | 68555-36-2 | Conditioning, film formation | C15H34Cl2N4O2 |
| Polyquaternium-7 | 26590-05-6 | Conditioning, film formation, thickening | — |
| Polyquaternium-10 you are here | 68610-92-4 | Conditioning, film formation, thickening | — |
| Polyquaternium-11 | 53633-54-8 | Conditioning, film formation | C18H34N2O7S |
| Polyquaternium-28 | 131954-48-8 | Conditioning, film formation | C16H30ClN3O2 |
How to choose: Polyquaternium is an INCI family of cationic (positively charged) polymers, not a single molecule — each number is a distinct backbone. Polyquaternium-7 is an acrylamide/DADMAC copolymer; the series is grouped for their shared cationic charge and film-forming/conditioning function profile. Members that also carry a thickening/rheology role (PQ-7, PQ-10) contribute viscosity in addition to substantivity.
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Polyquaternium-10 (CAS 68610-92-4) is a cationic polymer made by quaternizing hydroxyethyl cellulose. In personal-care formulations it functions as a hair-conditioning agent, antistatic agent, and film former, and it contributes to viscosity control. It is a reviewed cosmetic ingredient used in shampoos and conditioners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Polyquaternium-10, and is it synthetic or natural?
Polyquaternium-10 (CAS 68610-92-4) is a cationic polymer made by quaternizing hydroxyethyl cellulose, a cellulose derivative. It is a chemically modified (quaternized) material rather than an unmodified natural extract.
What is Polyquaternium-10 used for?
In personal-care formulations it functions as a hair-conditioning agent, an antistatic agent, and a film former, and it contributes to viscosity control. Its cationic substantivity supports wet and dry combability in shampoos and conditioners.
What is the difference between Polyquaternium-10 and Polyquaternium-7?
PQ-10 is a quaternized hydroxyethyl-cellulose polymer, while PQ-7 is an acrylamide/diallyldimethylammonium chloride copolymer. They differ in backbone chemistry and feel; both are cationic conditioning agents, so grade choice depends on the target formulation.
How is Polyquaternium-10 supplied and packaged in bulk?
It is typically supplied as a powder. Request a bulk quote with your target volume and packaging, and we will confirm availability along with the CoA and SDS.
What is the CAS number and identity documentation for Polyquaternium-10?
Its CAS number is 68610-92-4 (quaternized hydroxyethyl cellulose). A batch CoA and SDS are available on request to confirm identity and specifications for incoming-material qualification.