Polyquaternium-47 (Cosmetic Grade)

Polyquaternium-47 is a hair-softening ingredient that makes shampoos, body washes, and conditioners feel less drying and more “salon smooth.”

Think of it like a built-in detangler for cleansing products:

• Hair feels softer after rinsing

• Less tangling, less frizz, easier combing

• Your shampoo foam can feel creamier and more conditioned

• Works especially well in surfactant products (shampoo/body wash)

What it’s best for

Shampoos that need more slip + less squeaky feel
Body wash / liquid soap that feels smoother on skin
Conditioners + leave-ins that need detangling + softness
Frizz control + manageability (without heavy oils)

How to Use (step-by-step)

Step 1 — Choose your usage level

A simple, beginner-friendly range is: 0.1% – 3% of your finished product.

• Start at 0.5% – 1% for a noticeable “softer wash” feel

• Go up to 2% – 3% for stronger slip/detangling (test to avoid heaviness)

Step 2 — Add it the right way

Best method (from scratch formulas):

1. Add Polyquaternium-47 into your water phase and mix until uniform.

2. Continue building your shampoo/body wash/conditioner as normal.

3. Thicken last (salt/electrolytes can change thickness).

If you’re adding to a ready-made shampoo base:

1. Weigh your Polyquaternium-47.

2. Stir in slowly to reduce bubbles.

3. Let it sit 30–60 minutes so the texture settles.

“How much in 100g?” (super simple)

• 1% = 1g in 100g

• 2% = 2g in 100g

• 3% = 3g in 100g

Pro Tips

• Start low and increase—too much can feel heavy depending on your surfactants.

• If your bottle is very thick, you can pre-mix it with a small amount of distilled water first for easier measuring (optional).

• Add before final thickening—these polymers can change how your shampoo/body wash thickens.

INCI

Polyquaternium-47

CAS

197969-51-0