POLYQUATERNIUM‑78
1. INCI Name
Polyquaternium‑78
2. CAS Number
1323393‑42‑7
3. Raw Material Source
Polymerized Alkyl Polyglucosides (APGs) derived from renewable plant‑based feedstocks (sugars + fatty alcohols).
4. Overview
Polyquaternium‑78 is a renewable, biodegradable, and eco‑friendly conditioning polymer created from Alkyl Polyglucosides (APGs). APGs are non‑ionic surfactants produced from plant‑derived sugars and fatty alcohols. Through polymerization and targeted cationic modification, APGs are transformed into a high‑performance conditioning agent with excellent substantivity for hair and skin.
It is free from ethylene oxide (EO), 1,4‑dioxane, and residual acrylic monomers, making it suitable for clean‑beauty, sensitive‑skin, and COSMOS‑aligned formulations.
5. Cosmetic Functions
- Conditioning
- Substantivity (adheres to hair + skin)
- Anti‑static
- Film‑forming
- Emulsification support
- Dispersing
- Mildness and sensory enhancement
6. Mechanism of Action
APGs are naturally non‑ionic. When polymerized and modified with cationic quaternary groups, they gain a positive charge that allows Polyquaternium‑78 to:
- Bind to negatively charged keratin on hair and skin
- Improve slip, combability, and tactile feel
- Reduce static and frizz
- Enhance moisture retention
- Form a lightweight, flexible conditioning film
This cationic modification is responsible for its conditioning, softening, and smoothing performance.
7. Production & Sustainability Profile
Bio‑Based Origin
- Derived from renewable plant sugars and fatty alcohols
- Built on the APG platform, known for biodegradability and low toxicity
Manufacturing Process
- Polymerization of APGs
- Reaction with quaternary ammonium compounds to introduce cationic groups
- Purification and blending to achieve the final polymer profile
Environmental Considerations
- Readily biodegradable
- Free from EO and 1,4‑dioxane
- Provides a renewable alternative to petrochemical conditioning polymers
- Sustainability depends on energy use, water consumption, chemical inputs, and waste management practices
8. Skin Benefits
- Enhances softness and smoothness
- Improves moisture retention
- Supports spreadability and sensory feel in lotions and creams
- Provides a lightweight conditioning effect without greasiness
9. Hair Benefits
- Improves slip and combability
- Reduces static and frizz
- Enhances shine and smoothness
- Provides lightweight conditioning without buildup
- Supports curl definition and frizz control in textured hair
10. Applications in Natural Moxy Formulations
Suitable for:
- Leave‑in conditioners
- Rinse‑off conditioners
- Styling creams and serums
- Body lotions
- Cleansers requiring mild conditioning
- Curl‑defining products
- Sensitive‑skin formulations
Its mildness and biodegradability make it ideal for eco‑conscious, sensitive‑skin‑friendly product lines.
11. Safety & Regulatory Notes
- Considered low‑irritation due to APG backbone
- Avoid inhalation of raw powder (general polymer handling precaution)
- SDS indicates low acute toxicity and good environmental profile
12. Citations
- Colonial Chemical — Poly SugaQuat L‑1010P Product Page
- UL Prospector — Poly SugaQuat L‑1010P
- Formulator Sample Shop — Polyquaternium‑78
- Colonial Chemical — Poly SugaQuat Technical Data Sheet
- Colonial Chemical — Poly SugaQuat Safety Data Sheet