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Polyquaternium 10 is a water soluble, white granulated powder that is a widely used ingredient in hair care products because of its anti-static and moisturizing properties. It is also considered a film former, supplying a sheen and coating to hair strands by easily being absorbed by proteins.

Polyquaternium-10 is a cationic, surface-active polymer that is adsorbed by keratinous surfaces, such as hair and skin (stratum corneum). The adsorption of the polymer was not readily affected by pH in the range of 4 to 10. It undergoes slow hydrolytic cleavage outside this pH range. Sorption of Polyquaternium-10 to keratinous surfaces was decreased by the addition of electrolytes (salts), such as aluminum, iron, calcium, or sodium. Polyquaternium-10 is biologically degradable. The presence of ethyl alcohol or propylene glycol adds to the stability of PoIyquaternium-10. 

Polyquaternium-10 is generally considered to be safe for topical use. It is mild, non-irritant and non-sensitizing to the skin, hence used in a wide range of cosmetic products. At 2% concentration in the skincare and haircare formulation, it is non-irritant and does not show any signs of allergic reaction on your skin. Hence Polyquaternium-10 is considered to be safe for use in cosmetics at 2% concentration. At 5% concentration, it is known to show mild irritation to your skin and eyes. Polyquaternium-10 is considered to be entirely safe for use at 2% concentration or below. Anything above it can cause slight irritation to your skin and eyes.

polyquaternium-10 is safe as a cosmetic ingredient in its current concentrations and uses. In 2005, the Expert Panel evaluated new data and confirmed the above conclusion. Polyquaternium 10 has low toxicity. Skin studies indicated that it was poorly absorbed into the skin. This is due to the fact that it binds to the protein, keratin, in the skin and hair. In high concentrations, 5% or greater, polyquarternium 10 can be mildly irritating to the skin and eyes. However, when used at 2% or lower this effect is not observed. It also is not genotoxic or photosensitizing.