Description
What is PQ 7
Polyquaternium 7 is also known as PQ 7. This is a water-soluble conditioning polymer found in hair and skin care products. It has slip, softness, enhanced wet combability, static control, and a soft feel to hair and skin. It also works with surface-active agents such as shampoos and body washes.
Why Formulators Use PQ 7
- Better slip and detangling: PQ 7 helps hair comb more easily in wet and dry conditions. It also provides a soft feel and shine.
- Soft feel without build-up: It has a reputation for non-sticky conditions. This is important for everyday shampoos, body washes, and light conditioners.
- Works well in shampoo systems: PQ 7 can be used with other anionic surfactants and is therefore suitable for use in shampoo, body wash, hand wash, and other cleaning products.
- Improves product feel: It can help formulas be creamier and can cream up foam in rinse products.
How to Use
Handling Note
PQ 7 is a viscous liquid. Shake well before using. It is soluble in water and is typically added in the cool-down or at a temperature below 40 degrees.
The table below gives a few starting points that are within the range supplied for Polyquaternium-7. Use levels in cosmetics are typically 1% to 3% in hair, and 1% to 5% in skin, though the wide range supplied goes to 6%.
| Product Type | PQ 7 in Formula |
| Shampoo | 1% to 3% |
| Body Wash / Hand Wash | 1% to 3% |
| Face Wash / Skin Cleanser | 1% to 2% |
| Rinse-Off Conditioner | 1% to 3% |
| Leave-In Conditioner / Detangler | 1% to 2% |
| Lotion / Cream | 1% to 3% |
Target pH
PQ 7 itself will tolerate a pH range of 3-12. Skin products are usually pH 4-6. Use pH 5.5 to 6.5 when making shampoos. For conditioners, pH 4 to 4.5 is common.
Formulation Build Order
- Start with water.
- Add humectants and other water-soluble ingredients, if required.
- Add your surfactants or base ingredients.
- Add PQ 7 until it’s homogenized.
- Add the preservative and other cool-down ingredients.
What You Can Make With PQ 7
- Shampoos
- Body washes
- Liquid hand washes
- Facial cleansers
- Hair conditioners
- Leave-in detanglers
- Hair styling products
- Creams and lotions
- Bubble bath and cleaning products
- Shaving products
Why Order From Stexol
- COA With Every Batch: COA with every batch to confirm key figures for the product.
- No Minimum Order PressureWe will ship small and bulk quantities, and only what you need to try and test before working with sampling and small batches.
- Discounted Pricing for Bulk Orders: Value and tiered pricing when you place larger orders.
- Same-Day Dispatch: Same day dispatch to get things done.
FAQs
What is PQ 7 used for?
It’s a conditioning agent to boost slip, softness, detangling, and “palatability” in skin and hair products.
What can I use PQ 7 for?
Yes. PQ 7 can be used in shampoo and other cleansing products.
Can PQ 7 be used on the skin?
No. It can also be used in skin care and cleansing products.
When is PQ 7 added to a formulation?
You can add PQ 7 during the cool-down or at the end of mixing.
What pH does PQ 7 work in?
PQ 7 can be used from pH 3-12, but the pH of the final product must suit your product.
Order Now
Looking to buy a different bag of PQ 7 for your next recipe? COA available. Same-day dispatch. Discounted prices for bulk orders.
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