Polyquaternium-22
Polyquaternium-22 is a synthetic conditioning polymer commonly used in UK haircare and skincare products. It helps detangle hair, smooth the surface of strands and leave skin feeling soft and silky without any heavy or greasy residue.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, Polyquaternium-22 is a cationic conditioning agent that forms a light, invisible film on the surface of hair and skin. This film reduces static, improves wet and dry combability and enhances the slip and feel of creams, lotions and hair masks. It is particularly valued in rinse-off and leave-in formulations because it binds well to negatively charged surfaces such as damaged hair cuticles and skin, delivering smoothness and manageability even at low concentrations.
Key benefits
- Improves hair detangling and combability
- Reduces static and flyaway hair
- Leaves hair feeling silky and smooth
- Enhances skin softness and suppleness
- Provides lightweight conditioning without build-up
- Helps improve the texture and slip of cosmetic formulas
Best for
dry hair, damaged hair, frizzy hair, sensitive skin, normal to dry skin
Where it comes from
Polyquaternium-22 is a fully synthetic ingredient produced by polymerising acrylic acid derivatives with diallyldimethylammonium chloride. It does not originate from any plant, mineral or natural source.