What is Polyquaternium-7 and how does it compare across the series?
Polyquaternium-7 (CAS 26590-05-6) is a cationic acrylamide/DADMAC copolymer in the INCI Polyquaternium family; its listed cosmetic functions include conditioning, film formation and thickening. Along with Polyquaternium-10 it carries a rheology/thickening role that the other grades in the series do not list. RawSource supplies it in bulk to specification.
POLYQUATERNIUM-7- ▸ Hair & skin conditioning: Cationic conditioning compatible with cleansing surfactants
- ▸ Antistatic: Reduces static charge on hair
- ▸ Film forming: Deposits a smooth conditioning film
- ▸ Sensory modification: Improves slip and feel in rinse-off cleansers
| Grade | CAS No. | Listed functions | Repeat-unit formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyquaternium-2 | 68555-36-2 | Conditioning, film formation | C15H34Cl2N4O2 |
| Polyquaternium-7 you are here | 26590-05-6 | Conditioning, film formation, thickening | — |
| Polyquaternium-10 | 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-7 (CAS 26590-05-6) is a cationic copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride. It is used in personal-care formulations as a hair-conditioning, antistatic, and film-forming agent, and it is compatible with anionic surfactant systems. It is a reviewed cosmetic ingredient used in shampoos, conditioners, and body washes.
Regulatory & registration requirements
- TSCA (US):
- REACH (EU): Not determined from public registry
- EC number: 607-965-2
TSCA Inventory flag XU: a substance exempt from reporting under the Chemical Data Reporting Rule (40 CFR 711) (EPA flag legend).
Source: EPA TSCA Inventory (July 2025 release) · ECHA CHEM — retrieved 2026-07-12
Solutions Using This Product
Process-solution guides on this site that specify this chemistry:
- Clean-Rinse Film-Forming Styling Polymers (Beauty & Personal Care)
- Cationic Conditioners & Silicones for Detangling (Beauty & Personal Care)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Polyquaternium-7 used for?
Polyquaternium-7 (CAS 26590-05-6) is used as a hair- and skin-conditioning, antistatic, and film-forming agent in personal-care formulations. It is compatible with anionic surfactant systems, so it is common in shampoos, conditioners, and body washes.
What is Polyquaternium-7 made of?
It is a cationic copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC). That structure gives it cationic conditioning behavior plus film formation and improved slip in rinse-off cleansers.
Is Polyquaternium-7 compatible with anionic surfactant systems?
Yes. PQ-7 is formulated to remain compatible with anionic cleansing surfactants, which is why it is widely used in surfactant-based shampoos and body washes for conditioning and feel benefits.
Where can I buy Polyquaternium-7 in bulk, and how is it packaged?
RawSource supplies it in bulk as an aqueous solution, typically in drums, totes, or IBCs. 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 for Polyquaternium-7?
Its CAS number is 26590-05-6 (acrylamide/DADMAC copolymer). A batch CoA and SDS are available on request for identity confirmation.
What is the REACH and TSCA regulatory status of Polyquaternium-7 (Acrylamide/DADMAC Copolymer)?
Polyquaternium-7 (Acrylamide/DADMAC Copolymer) (CAS 26590-05-6) is listed as Active on the U.S. EPA TSCA Inventory; its REACH registration status is not determined from the public ECHA registry.