Conditioning Polymer for Shampoo & Body Wash

INCI

Polyquaternium-7

CAS

26590-05-6

Product Description (rewritten so anyone can understand)

Polyquaternium-7 is a hair-conditioning ingredient that you add to products like shampoo, body wash, cleanser, and conditioner to make them feel less drying and more “salon-soft.”

Think of it like a light conditioner that works inside cleansing products. It helps hair feel:

• softer

• less tangled

• less frizzy

• easier to comb

• less “squeaky” after washing

It’s popular because it works really well in surfactant products (shampoo/body wash) where regular oils can feel heavy or separate.

What it’s best for

Shampoos that feel less stripping
Body wash / liquid soap with a smoother feel
Detangling, slip, and anti-static performance
Conditioning cleansers and creamy foam feel

How to Use (Simple Step-by-Step)

Step 1 — Decide what you’re making

Use this as a starting point for the amount to add to your finished product:

• Shampoo / Body wash / Cleanser: 0.5% – 3%

• Conditioner: 1% – 5%

• Leave-in products: 0.2% – 2% (depends on feel)

If you want it light: start low.
If you want more slip/detangling: go higher.

Step 2 — Add it the right way (so it blends smoothly)

For shampoos/body wash (best method):

1. Add Polyquaternium-7 into the water phase (or into your base before you thicken with salt).

2. Mix gently until fully uniform.

3. Continue with your surfactants and remaining ingredients.

4. Add fragrance/color, then adjust thickness last.

For ready-made shampoo base:

1. Pre-mix Polyquaternium-7 with a small amount of water (optional, helps blending).

2. Stir into the shampoo base slowly (avoid foaming).

3. Let it sit 30–60 minutes so bubbles settle and texture finishes developing.

Step 3 — “How much do I put in 100g?” (easy examples)

• 1% = 1g Polyquaternium-7 in 100g product

• 2% = 2g in 100g

• 3% = 3g in 100g

That’s it.

Pro Tips (prevents customer mistakes)

• Mix slowly to avoid bubbles.

• Add salt last if you thicken your shampoo with salt (salt can change viscosity).

• If your Polyquaternium-7 is very thick, you can pre-dilute it with distilled water to make measuring easier.