POLYQUATERNIUM-7 · CAS 26590-05-6 · DADMAC Copolymer · PQ-7
Narm-o-Chiknai (نرم و چکنائی) — Pakistan's premier cationic conditioning polymer. A water-soluble DADMAC copolymer that deposits a substantive conditioning film on hair and skin through electrostatic adsorption. Delivers detangling, anti-frizz, antistatic action, and lightweight moisturisation in a single halal-certified, surfactant-compatible liquid — indispensable for shampoos, leave-in sprays, and body wash in Karachi's humidity and Lahore's summer heat.
⚠ Annex III Entry 66 — PERMITTED with conditions: max 5% in finished product; acrylamide residual max 10 ppm in raw material
Acrylamide Impurity
EU requires max 10 ppm residual acrylamide in PQ-7 raw material. Always request lot CoA showing acrylamide data before use
Urdu / Pakistan Name
Narm-o-Chiknai (نرم و چکنائی) — Softness and Slip Polymer · Resham Polymer (ریشم) — Silk-smooth conditioning agent
Shelf Life (sealed)
24 months at 5–25°C sealed · Do NOT freeze (irreversible phase separation) · Avoid prolonged heat above 40°C
Introduction
The Silk Polymer of Pakistani Hair Care
Polyquaternium-7 is one of the most commercially significant conditioning polymers ever developed for the personal care industry — a water-soluble cationic macromolecule that fundamentally transforms the hair and skin feel of any formulation it enters. It is the copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), produced by free-radical polymerisation in aqueous medium. In its commercially supplied form, PQ-7 is a clear, colourless to pale yellow, slightly viscous aqueous liquid, typically at 8–20% active polymer content. The polymer carries a permanent positive charge across the full cosmetic-use pH range — and this is the source of every one of its remarkable functional properties.
The cationic nature of Polyquaternium-7 enables strong electrostatic adsorption onto the negatively charged surfaces of both hair keratin and skin. This deposits a thin, flexible protective polymer film that delivers detangling, wet and dry combability, reduced frizz, softness, shine enhancement, and mild moisturising effects — simultaneously, in a single water-based ingredient. Its compatibility with anionic, nonionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants is exceptionally broad, making it uniquely suited to the high-surfactant environment of shampoos and body washes. Global brands from Pantene Pro-V to Garnier Fructis to Johnson's Baby rely on this polymer class for their conditioning performance. In the Pakistani market — where thick, frizz-prone South Asian hair meets Karachi's year-round coastal humidity and Lahore's fierce summer heat — Polyquaternium-7 addresses deeply real and commercially urgent performance needs. Its status as a water-soluble, non-greasy polymer makes it perfectly aligned with Pakistan's consumer preference for lightweight products in hot weather.
Bio Shop™ Pakistan — Sourcing Note
Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks cosmetic-grade Polyquaternium-7 (PQ-7) as an aqueous solution sourced from established international manufacturers in China and South Korea with documented supply chains. Confirm the active polymer percentage from the product lot CoA before calculating formula weights — always formulate on an active-content basis. Lot-specific Certificate of Analysis including acrylamide residual data (must be below 10 ppm for EU compliance) is available on request. Visit bioshop.pk/products/pq-7-polyquarternium-7 for current stock and pricing.
Molecular Identity
Chemical Identification
INCI NamePOLYQUATERNIUM-7
CAS Number26590-05-6
CosIng Reference36882 · EU Annex III Entry 66 (Restricted)
IUPAC / Chemical NamePoly(acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride)
Synthesis RouteDADMAC from dimethylamine + allyl chloride (petroleum); acrylamide from acrylonitrile hydration — 100% petrochemical
Natural OccurrenceNone — entirely synthetic polymer with no natural counterpart
Urdu / PakistanNarm-o-Chiknai (نرم و چکنائی) — Softness and Slip Polymer · Resham (ریشم) — Silk conditioning
Grade & Purity Profiles
Four Commercial Grades
Polyquaternium-7 is supplied exclusively as an aqueous solution — never as dry powder, as the high-molecular-weight polymer is too hygroscopic to handle in solid form. Grades differ primarily in active polymer content, molecular weight distribution, and charge density ratio. Understanding these distinctions is critical for Pakistani formulators: always confirm the active percentage from the product lot CoA before calculating formula weights. Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks cosmetic-grade PQ-7 as an aqueous solution with lot-specific documentation available.
Professional Standard · Bio Shop™ Grade
Cosmetic Grade (8–12%)
Standard active content · Easy to handle · Most widely used in formulation
"The professional standard for shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in sprays. Low active content makes measuring easy on standard balances. Bio Shop™ Pakistan primary stock. For a 1% active use level, calculate accordingly: 1g active ÷ 0.10 = 10g of 10% solution per 100g batch."
Concentrated Grade
Concentrated (20% Active)
High active content · Lower shipping weight · Requires precise weighing
Active Polymer Content
~20%
Acrylamide residual <10 ppm (EU) · Higher viscosity · Cost-efficient for large batches
"Reduces shipping weight per active gram — cost-efficient for large-scale production. Requires more careful weighing (use 0.01g precision balance). For 1% active in 100g batch: add 5g of 20% solution. Always verify active % from CoA; grades differ by supplier."
"Formulated for baby shampoos and sensitive-skin formulations. The lower MW polymer depositing a lighter, less substantive film; reduces any risk of eye irritation. Used in no-more-tears baby products globally. For Pakistani baby care brands targeting Fitzpatrick III-VI infant skin — the safest specification."
No CoA available · Acrylamide status undocumented · pH above 6 (degradation)
"Common adulterants: excessive water dilution (active content far below stated grade); cheap thickeners (guar gum, xanthan) added to mask low active content; incorrect pH above 6 suggesting degradation. Risk: undocumented acrylamide levels may exceed EU 10 ppm limit. Always request lot-specific CoA with acrylamide data."
Dosage Science
Concentration Behaviour
Polyquaternium-7 exhibits a well-defined dose-response relationship across its cosmetic use range. Benefit scales linearly from 0.2% to approximately 2–3%, after which a plateau is reached and the risk of polymer buildup on hair with repeated use increases. The EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III Entry 66 sets an absolute maximum of 5% in finished cosmetic products — not because higher concentrations are acutely toxic, but to control cumulative acrylamide impurity exposure. For Pakistani formulators, the commercially optimal range is 0.5–2%, delivering full conditioning performance at cost-effective actives loading.
0.05–0.2% in Finished ProductSub-threshold / Budget
Minimal perceptible conditioning; slight antistatic effect only. Suitable for budget body wipes, baby wipes, or products where conditioning is secondary. Not recommended for conditioning shampoos or leave-in treatments — consumers will not notice the benefit
0.2–0.5% in Finished ProductLight Conditioning
Mild detangling; reduced static; slightly improved wet combability. Ideal for daily-use lightweight shampoos, baby shampoos, and body washes where a light conditioning touch is desired without any heaviness or buildup risk. Suitable for fine hair types
0.5–1.5% in Finished ProductFull Conditioning Effect
Full conditioning benefit: good detangling, clear anti-frizz action, smooth wet and dry feel. Standard range for conditioning shampoos and 2-in-1 products. Commercially validated across global brands. Ideal for South Asian coarse hair types in Pakistani market. Most cost-efficient performance range
1.5–3.0% in Finished ProductRich Conditioning
Rich, substantive conditioning; excellent wet and dry combability; strong frizz control; mild moisturisation from TEWL reduction. Appropriate for leave-in conditioning sprays, rinse-out conditioners, and intensive hair masks. The recommended range for anti-frizz leave-in sprays in Karachi's 80%+ humidity
3.0–5.0% in Finished ProductMaximum — EU Ceiling
Maximum conditioning film; risk of polymer buildup with repeated use on some hair types; evaluate for scalp sensitivity. Suitable for weekly deep conditioning masks and professional intensive treatments only. This is the EU Annex III permitted ceiling — do not exceed 5% in any cosmetic product
Above 5.0% in Finished ProductEU Prohibited Level
Exceeds EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III Entry 66 maximum concentration limit. NOT permitted for any cosmetic product marketed in the EU or UK. For Pakistan domestic market only, the EU restriction does not legally apply, but exceeding 5% offers no additional conditioning benefit and significantly increases buildup and scalp irritation risk
Mechanism Analysis
Functional Performance Profile
Mechanism 1 · Electrostatics
Cationic Adsorption
The primary mechanism of Polyquaternium-7's entire performance profile is elegantly simple: opposite charges attract. The permanent positive charges on PQ-7's DADMAC repeat units (piperidinium quaternary nitrogen, pH-independent across 2–10) are electrostatically attracted to the negatively charged surfaces of hair keratin and skin corneocytes. Damaged or bleached hair is especially anionic — its cuticle scales are lifted and stripped, exposing the strongly negatively charged inner cortex — and PQ-7 adsorbs onto these surfaces with exceptional affinity. In Pakistan's context, this is directly relevant: the South Asian tradition of champi (hot oil massage) and occasional use of traditional alkaline hair preparations can leave hair with elevated anionic character, creating an even more receptive surface for PQ-7 adsorption. The multi-point binding of the high-MW polymer chain — hundreds of cationic units simultaneously binding across the hair surface — gives the adsorbed film far greater durability than small-molecule quaternary ammonium conditioners like cetrimonium chloride, which bind through a single charge centre.
Mechanism 2 · Deposition
Coacervate Delivery
In shampoo systems, PQ-7 delivers its conditioning effect through a beautifully engineered deposition mechanism called coacervation. When the cationic PQ-7 polymer encounters anionic surfactants (SLES from Shampoo Base, SLS) in the wash liquor, they form ion-pair complexes — coacervate droplets — that are insoluble in the surfactant solution. These droplets preferentially migrate to and deposit on the negatively charged hair surface during application. Upon rinsing, as the surfactant concentration drops, the coacervate dissociates and the liberated PQ-7 polymer adsorbs permanently onto the hair. This means PQ-7 actually performs better in SLES-containing shampoos than in surfactant-free systems — the very anionic character of the surfactant that is cleansing the hair simultaneously facilitates the polymer's deposition. For Pakistani shampoo formulators using Bio Shop™'s Shampoo Base, this coacervation mechanism is automatically active at any PQ-7 level above 0.5%, delivering leave-behind conditioning without any separate conditioning step.
Mechanism 3 · Film Formation
Surface Conditioning Film
Once adsorbed, PQ-7's polymer chains form a continuous, flexible film on the hair cuticle or skin surface. This film is the direct source of every sensory and functional benefit the consumer experiences: the smooth, flexible polymer chains reduce hair-hair friction dramatically, delivering the perceived softness and slip that consumers associate with premium conditioning — wet combability (combing force studies document 30–60% reduction at PQ-7 levels of 0.5–2%); dry hair smoothness and shine (the film reflects light uniformly from the levelled cuticle surface); antistatic charge neutralisation (the positive charges in the film dissipate the negative triboelectric static charge generated by combing, blow-drying, and fabric contact — particularly relevant in Lahore's and Islamabad's dry winters or air-conditioned office environments where static is a primary complaint); and mild moisturisation through TEWL reduction (the polymer film creates a partial physical barrier at the stratum corneum, retaining moisture at the skin surface). Scanning electron microscopy confirms the formation of a continuous polymer film on the cuticle following PQ-7 treatment.
Mechanism 4 · Synergy
Moisturisation & Stack Performance
Polyquaternium-7's conditioning film creates a powerful platform for synergistic actives performance. When paired with glycerin (2–5%), PQ-7 provides the film framework while glycerin provides hygroscopic moisture attraction — PQ-7 holds the glycerin-attracted water at the hair/skin surface, delivering more moisturisation than either ingredient alone. With Panthenol (Vitamin B5), PQ-7 conditions the exterior cuticle surface while B5 penetrates the shaft and improves internal elasticity — surface and structural conditioning simultaneously. With Silk Protein or Hydrolysed Keratin, PQ-7 seals the cuticle surface over the deposited protein treatment, extending protein retention by preventing washout. With Dimethicone at low levels, PQ-7 acts as an anchor polymer that dramatically improves silicone deposition efficiency — the combined result outperforms silicone alone. For Karachi consumers experiencing year-round 80%+ humidity frizz, the anti-frizz stack of PQ-7 (1.5%) + Panthenol (1%) + Glycerin (3%) is clinically validated and commercially compelling. This synergy-stacking approach is the defining formulation strategy for premium PQ-7-based Pakistani hair care.
Three production-ready formulas from the Bio Shop™ Pakistan reference document — exact weights, exact percentages, all totalling 100g. Formula 1 is a conditioning shampoo using Shampoo Base. Formula 2 is a lightweight anti-frizz leave-in conditioning spray. Formula 3 is a conditioning body wash for the Karachi and Lahore market. Note: Glycerin and Lavender Essential Oil are used in these formulas — verify current URLs at bioshop.pk before ordering.
Resham Baalon Ka Shampoo · ریشم بالوں کا شیمپو
Silky Hair Conditioning Shampoo · 100g batch · Urban women 18–40 · Festival & daily use · Lahore / Karachi
1. Combine Phase A (water + Glycerin); mix. 2. Add Phase B surfactants with gentle stirring — avoid foaming. 3. Add PQ-7, Panthenol, Allantoin (pre-dissolve Allantoin in warm water first). 4. Add Aloe Vera, Lavender EO. 5. Add Germall Plus (below 40°C). 6. Add Sodium Chloride as 10% solution; evaluate viscosity (target 4,000–10,000 cP). 7. Adjust pH to 5.5–6.0. Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy. Pakistan market claim: "Nahane ke baad bhi naram jild" (Skin stays soft even after bathing). EU export: no allergen declaration required for PQ-7. Target price: PKR 400–550 / 250mL.
Synergies
Classic Pairings
Polyquaternium-7 is compatible with virtually all surfactant systems and most cosmetic actives. The following pairings represent the most commercially validated and scientifically documented combinations for Pakistani formulation, confirmed from the Bio Shop™ Pakistan reference document.
Preferred for natural-positioned formulas; better for mild thickening in clear shampoos; valuable in combination with PQ-7
Verdict: Complementary partner, not replacement. PQ-10's natural backbone enables "natural ingredient" positioning; PQ-7 delivers stronger conditioning. Stack both for maximum performance. Available at bioshop.pk/products/polyquaternium-10-pq-10
Polyquaternium-11 (PQ-11)
PVP-based Copolymer · Styling / Film Former
Performance vs PQ-7
Stronger styling and fixative performance than PQ-7; forms a harder film; less conditioning and anti-frizz than PQ-7; primarily for styling hold
EU Status / Key Spec
EU Permitted · CosIng: antistatic, film forming · Used in styling gels, hair sprays, mousse
Use With PQ-7
Not typically combined; different primary functions. Choose PQ-11 for styling hold products; choose PQ-7 for conditioning and anti-frizz
Pakistan Application
Men's styling gels and hair waxes; setting sprays for festive hairstyling at Eid — where hold, not conditioning, is the consumer priority
Verdict: Different function category. PQ-11 is a styling polymer; PQ-7 is a conditioning polymer. Select based on primary product function. Available at bioshop.pk/products/pq-11-polyquarternium-11
Very strong conditioning and detangling at higher use levels (0.5–3%); heavier feel; deposits a thicker wax-like film; can feel heavy on fine hair
EU Status / Key Spec
EU Annex V — preservative (antimicrobial at high levels); conditioning at low levels; CIR safe at ≤2.5% · pH-dependent conditioning charge
Use With PQ-7
Synergistic in rinse-out conditioners: CTAC (0.5–1%) + PQ-7 (1%) = maximum detangling + slip. Detangling Stack for dense South Asian hair
Pakistan Application
Best for thick, dense South Asian hair needing intensive detangling; heavy conditioners for chemically treated hair; combined with PQ-7 in bridal hair masks
Verdict: Complementary for intensive conditioning. CTAC adds richness and slip; PQ-7 adds lightweight antistatic film. Together: maximum conditioning for coarse South Asian hair. Available at bioshop.pk/products/cetrimonium-chloride
Dimethicone
Polydimethylsiloxane · Silicone Polymer
Performance vs PQ-7
Higher shine and slip than PQ-7; excellent heat protection; NOT water-soluble — must be emulsified; heavier feel; sustainability/biodegradability concern
EU Status / Key Spec
EU Permitted; under REACH scrutiny for environmental persistence · CIR safe as used · Regulatory pressure increasing in EU markets
Use With PQ-7
Anchor synergy: PQ-7 acts as a carrier/anchor polymer improving silicone deposition efficiency. Together: superior conditioning vs silicone alone at lower silicone loading
Pakistan Application
Silicone-heavy conditioners for shine-focused Pakistani bridal hair; PQ-7 + Dimethicone 0.5% as the lightweight alternative to high-silicone formulas in summer
Verdict: Strategic pair. PQ-7 enables lower silicone loading while maintaining performance — better for sustainability positioning. Available at bioshop.pk/products/dimethicone-tc-1218
Safety & Regulations
EU Regulations & Safety Overview
Educational summary of publicly available regulatory data as of 2024. Always consult current EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, FDA guidelines, SCCS opinions, the ingredient Safety Data Sheet, and your regulatory advisor before commercial formulation. This document does not constitute regulatory or safety advice.
⚠️
EU Cosmetics Regulation — Annex III Entry 66 (Restricted)
Polyquaternium-7 is listed in Annex III (Restricted Substances) of EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 under Entry 66. The restriction conditions are: maximum 5.0% w/w in finished cosmetic product; and residual acrylamide impurity in the raw material must not exceed 10 ppm (0.001%). This restriction is not based on direct toxicity of the polymer — which the CIR has deemed safe — but specifically on controlling acrylamide monomer exposure (IARC Group 2A probable carcinogen). At 10 ppm in raw material and ≤5% in finished product, the resulting acrylamide exposure is toxicologically insignificant. Pakistani manufacturers exporting to EU or UK must comply with these conditions and maintain CoA documentation showing acrylamide below 10 ppm in their Product Information File (PIF).
✅
FDA (USA) Status — CIR: Safe as Used at ≤5%
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel completed its safety assessment of Polyquaternium-7 and concluded "safe as used" for cosmetic applications at concentrations not exceeding 5% in finished products. The CIR specifically addressed the acrylamide impurity concern and confirmed that at 10 ppm maximum in raw material and ≤5% use level, the exposure presents no toxicological concern. No FDA warning letters, import alerts, or adverse event reports are associated with Polyquaternium-7 at cosmetic use levels. Pakistani brands exporting to the USA should ensure formulations remain within 5% and that raw material CoA documents the acrylamide content.
✅
DRAP Pakistan & Halal — Fully Compliant
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) does not currently maintain a specific restricted ingredient list equivalent to EU Annex III; Pakistan formulators have considerable flexibility for domestic products. Following EU limits (max 5%, acrylamide max 10 ppm) as best practice is strongly recommended. Halal status is definitively established: both monomers — DADMAC (from dimethylamine + allyl chloride, both petroleum-derived) and acrylamide (from acrylonitrile hydration, petroleum-derived) — have no animal, fermentation, or ethanol origin at any stage. No gelatin, tallow, carmine, or animal-derived processing aids are used. Major Halal certification bodies including JAKIM, IFANCA, HFA, and Pakistan Halal Authority classify synthetic conditioning polymers meeting these origin criteria as Halal-compatible for external cosmetic use.
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Human Safety Profile — Low Toxicity, Non-Sensitising
Acute oral LD₅₀ (rat): greater than 2,000 mg/kg — essentially non-toxic classification. Dermal LD₅₀ (rabbit): greater than 2,000 mg/kg — non-toxic by dermal route. Eye irritation: non-irritating to minimally irritating at cosmetic use concentrations. Skin sensitisation (GPMT): no evidence at ≤5%. Phototoxicity: none — no chromophoric UV-absorbing groups. Mutagenicity (Ames test): negative. Carcinogenicity: the polymer itself is not carcinogenic; acrylamide impurity is controlled to below 10 ppm. Systemic absorption: negligible by dermal route — PQ-7's molecular weight (50,000 to 2,000,000 g/mol) is several orders of magnitude above the skin penetration threshold (~500 g/mol). The polymer acts exclusively at the surface.
Polyquaternium-7 is a synthetic polymer with slower environmental degradation than natural conditioning alternatives such as guar gum or cellulosic polymers. It is not readily biodegradable under standard OECD test conditions. Aquatic toxicity at consumer product use concentrations (rinse-off shampoo/body wash at 0.5–2% in product, further diluted in shower wastewater) is very low. Pakistani formulators developing products with a sustainability or "green" positioning should note this biodegradability limitation and may consider pairing with or substituting natural conditioning polymers (Guar HTC, PQ-10) where natural certification is required. For standard commercial formulation targeting the Pakistani domestic market, environmental profile is not a current regulatory constraint.
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Handling, pH, and Freezing Precautions
CRITICAL — Do NOT freeze: below 0°C, PQ-7 solution undergoes irreversible phase separation and polymer aggregation — the product becomes unusable after a freeze-thaw cycle. Never refrigerate below 4°C. pH management: PQ-7 is supplied at pH 3.5–4.5; at pH above 8.0, acrylamide units begin to hydrolyse slowly, changing polymer character. Avoid incorporating into formulations above pH 8.5. For shampoos, adjust final pH to 5.0–5.5 after adding PQ-7. Avoid pairing with strong oxidising agents (hydrogen peroxide, bleach) as these degrade the polymer. Avoid high-shear mixing at concentrations above 3% — mechanical degradation of polymer chains reduces conditioning performance. Use gentle paddle or anchor mixing.
Handling & Storage
Storing in Pakistan's Climate
Temperature Range
Store at 5–25°C ideal. Polymer solution tolerates short-term exposure to 40°C but prolonged storage above 35°C accelerates microbial risk and may reduce active content through water evaporation. Below 4°C: do not refrigerate below this point — approaching 0°C risks irreversible phase separation
Container Type
HDPE (preferred) · PET or glass acceptable · Avoid galvanised steel or iron containers — cationic polymer may interact with metal ions · In Karachi coastal climate: HDPE preferred over glass with metal lids which rust in high humidity
⚠ Never Freeze
CRITICAL: Below 0°C causes irreversible phase separation and polymer aggregation. Product is permanently unusable after a freeze-thaw cycle. Do not store in unheated winter warehouses in Lahore where temperatures can approach freezing in December–January
Shelf Life (sealed)
24 months from manufacture date at 5–25°C sealed. Once opened: use within 6–12 months; seal tightly after each use. Re-test microbial counts before large-batch production if opened container has been stored more than 6 months
Preservation Check
Commercial PQ-7 is typically preserved with Sodium Benzoate; check CoA for preservative type. Sodium Benzoate is effective only below pH 5.5 — if storage solution pH rises above 5.5, preservative efficacy drops; check pH of stored material periodically
Active Content Calculation
Always formulate on active-content basis. Example: Formula calls for 1.5% PQ-7 active in 100g batch = 1.5g active needed. If Bio Shop grade is 10% active: add 15g solution. If 20% active: add 7.5g. Confirm active % from lot CoA before calculating
Lahore Summer (May–Sept)
Temperatures 38–48°C. Mandatory climate-controlled storage during summer months. Use 5–15°C storage (never freeze). Request early morning delivery during peak summer to minimise transit heat exposure. Never leave in delivery vehicles in daytime summer heat — PQ-7 does not flash or combust but microbial risk increases rapidly above 35°C
Karachi Coastal Climate
30–42°C year-round with 70–90% relative humidity. Store in air-conditioned environment (18–25°C). HDPE container preferred — coastal humidity corrodes metal lids. PQ-7 aqueous solution is unaffected by ambient humidity (already hydrated) but container integrity matters. Seal immediately after each use. Check containers for rust at lid interface
⚠ Quality verification: Genuine cosmetic-grade PQ-7 is a clear colourless to pale yellow, slightly viscous aqueous liquid. pH of supplied material: 3.5–4.5. If pH exceeds 6.0, the material may have degraded. Performance test: prepare a simple conditioning shampoo at 1% active PQ-7 — genuine material delivers clearly perceptible wet detangling and softness improvement over a shampoo without PQ-7. Sub-standard or heavily diluted material will show minimal conditioning at the same nominal use level. Always request a lot-specific Certificate of Analysis including: (1) active content %, (2) acrylamide residual (must be below 10 ppm for EU compliance), (3) pH, (4) viscosity, (5) microbial count. Bio Shop™ Pakistan documentation available on request.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Polyquaternium-7 Halal? What is its exact synthesis origin?+
Polyquaternium-7 is definitively Halal-compatible for external cosmetic use. The evidence is based entirely on its 100% petrochemical synthetic origin. Monomer 1: diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC) is synthesised from dimethylamine (derived from methanol and ammonia, both from petroleum/natural gas) and allyl chloride (from propylene chlorination) — no biological origin, no animal inputs, no fermentation at any step. Monomer 2: acrylamide is derived from acrylonitrile by copper-catalysed hydration — again entirely petrochemical, no animal material, no ethanol, no biological substrate. The polymerisation is conducted in purified water using inorganic initiators (persulfates, redox pairs) with no biological processing aids. The final product is the copolymer dissolved in water. No animal fats, gelatin, tallow, carmine, insect-derived materials, ethanol, or biological fermentation products are involved at any stage of PQ-7 production. On this basis, leading Halal certification bodies including JAKIM (Malaysia), IFANCA (USA), HFA (UK), and the Pakistan Halal Authority classify synthetic conditioning polymers meeting these origin criteria as Halal-compatible for external (non-ingested) cosmetic use. Bio Shop™ Pakistan can provide manufacturer Halal compatibility documentation upon request.
How do I verify PQ-7 purity and quality when buying in Pakistan?+
Four verification approaches are available to Pakistani formulators. First, always request a lot-specific Certificate of Analysis (CoA) showing: (1) active content percentage — confirm it matches what you are paying for; (2) acrylamide residual — must be below 10 ppm for EU compliance; (3) pH — should be 3.5–4.5; (4) viscosity — cross-reference with grade specification; (5) microbial count. If the supplier cannot provide acrylamide data, that is a significant red flag for EU-export products. Second, check the pH of the supplied material directly with a calibrated pH meter — genuine cosmetic-grade PQ-7 reads 3.5–4.5; material above pH 6.0 suggests degradation or adulteration with alkaline materials. Third, conduct a simple conditioning performance test: prepare a shampoo at 1% PQ-7 active — genuine material delivers clearly perceptible wet detangling and softness improvement over a shampoo base without PQ-7. Sub-standard or heavily diluted material will show minimal conditioning at the same nominal use level. Fourth, suspect adulteration if the material appears excessively watery (active content below stated grade), has a musty odour, or contains visible particles (guar gum thickeners added to mask dilution). Bio Shop™ Pakistan supplies documented material with CoA available on request.
What is the correct use level for PQ-7? Can I exceed 5% in a Pakistani domestic product?+
The EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III Entry 66 sets a maximum of 5.0% Polyquaternium-7 in finished cosmetic products — this applies legally to products marketed in the EU and UK. For Pakistani domestic market products, this EU limit does not legally apply, as DRAP does not currently enforce an equivalent restriction. However, following the 5% EU limit represents responsible formulation practice for two reasons: first, it is a consumer safety best practice based on peer-reviewed safety assessment; second, it simplifies regulatory compliance if you ever expand to export markets. Practically, the conditioning benefit of PQ-7 plateaus well below 5% — most commercial conditioning shampoos use 0.5–1.5% active, and leave-in treatments use 1.5–3.0% active. Above 3%, the benefit-to-cost ratio diminishes rapidly and polymer buildup on hair with repeated washing becomes a consumer complaint. Recommended use ranges: conditioning shampoo 0.5–1.5%; leave-in spray 1.0–2.0%; conditioner/mask 1.5–3.0%; body wash 0.5–1.0%; skin serum 0.2–0.5%. Always calculate these percentages on an active-content basis, accounting for your specific grade's active polymer percentage from the CoA.
How should I store PQ-7 in Pakistan's climate — Karachi and Lahore specifically?+
Pakistan's two major cities present different but equally challenging storage requirements. In Karachi (30–42°C year-round, 70–90% relative humidity): store in air-conditioned environment at 18–25°C; use sealed HDPE containers — coastal humidity corrodes metal lids; PQ-7's aqueous solution is not directly affected by ambient humidity (it is already hydrated) but container integrity is critical. In Lahore (summer 38–48°C May through September; winters approaching 0°C December–January): summer storage is mandatory in climate-controlled facilities; critically, do NOT allow material to freeze — below 0°C causes irreversible phase separation and polymer aggregation making the material permanently unusable. Target storage 5–25°C in both cities. Request early morning delivery during peak Lahore summer to minimise transit heat exposure. In both cities: seal containers immediately after each use, use containers without metal lids to prevent rust contamination, and inspect opened containers after 6 months of storage for any cloudiness or off-odour that might indicate microbial growth. The aqueous nature of PQ-7 means microbial risk increases above 35°C; air-conditioned storage is not optional in Pakistani summer conditions.
Is PQ-7 safe for South Asian and Pakistani skin and hair types?+
Yes — Polyquaternium-7 is particularly well-suited to South Asian (Fitzpatrick III–VI) skin and hair characteristics. For South Asian hair (typically thick, coarse, melanin-rich, and prone to frizz in humid conditions): PQ-7's anti-frizz and detangling properties are directly relevant; the lightweight, water-soluble polymer film is appropriate for dense fibre bundles that can feel heavy and greasy with oilier conditioning agents like dimethicone or cetrimonium chloride at high levels; the polymer does not affect hair colour or cause yellowing. For South Asian skin (more melanin-rich, prone to hyperpigmentation, generally higher Fitzpatrick classification): PQ-7 is not a skin active and has no effect on pigmentation whatsoever — it is a cosmetic conditioner only, leaving skin soft and smooth. No specific adverse effects have been identified for South Asian populations in published safety literature. At use levels of 0.2–2%, PQ-7 has an excellent tolerability profile across all ethnic groups. For baby skin in Pakistan, the baby/sensitive grade (low MW, ultra-low acrylamide) at 0.2–0.5% in baby shampoos has a strong global safety record. Avoid concentrations above 5% on any skin type.
Can I use PQ-7 with all surfactants, including SLES (Shampoo Base)?+
Yes — compatibility with anionic surfactants including SLES (available from Bio Shop™ as Shampoo Base) is one of Polyquaternium-7's most commercially important properties. Through the coacervation mechanism, PQ-7 actually works better in SLES-containing shampoos than in surfactant-free systems: the cationic-anionic interaction creates coacervate droplets that preferentially deposit on hair during application, then release the PQ-7 polymer during rinsing. PQ-7 is also fully compatible with amphoteric surfactants (Coco Betaine), nonionic surfactants (Coco Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside), and cationic surfactants (Cetrimonium Chloride). The compatibility table from the reference document also confirms: glycerin, propanediol, panthenol, niacinamide, AHAs, salicylic acid, and Germall Plus all show excellent compatibility. Cautions: at very high combined cationic polymer loads (PQ-7 plus PQ-10 plus Guar HTC all at high concentrations), precipitation is possible — test your specific combination. Carbomer (Carbomer 940) may interact at high pH when PQ-7 is present; use PQ-10 or HEC in place of Carbomer for cationic systems. Avoid bleach/peroxide systems — oxidising conditions degrade the polymer.
Does PQ-7 address common Pakistani hair concerns: hairfall, dandruff, and oiliness?+
Polyquaternium-7 directly addresses two of the most common Pakistani hair complaints — frizz and difficult detangling — but has specific capabilities and limitations with respect to hairfall, dandruff, and oiliness. For hairfall (baal jharna — a primary consumer concern): PQ-7 does not stimulate hair growth or address the androgenic or nutritional causes of alopecia. However, it significantly reduces mechanical breakage during combing by improving wet detangling — if your hairfall is primarily mechanical from aggressive combing of tangled hair, PQ-7-conditioned hair breaks less. For dandruff (khushki): PQ-7 alone does not treat dandruff, which requires anti-dandruff actives such as Zinc Pyrithione (bioshop.pk/products/zinc-pyrithione), ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide. However, PQ-7 can be incorporated alongside Zinc Pyrithione in an anti-dandruff shampoo to provide conditioning alongside the therapeutic action — a dual-benefit formula. For oily scalp: PQ-7 at low levels (0.3–0.8%) adds negligible oil or weight; it is safe and effective in shampoos for oily scalp types. Pair with Zinc PCA (bioshop.pk/products/zinc-pca-pyrrolidone-carboxylic-acid) for a comprehensive oily scalp conditioning solution — PQ-7 conditions without adding grease while Zinc PCA controls sebum production.
What product formats work best for Pakistani consumers? And which Urdu names suit PQ-7 products?+
For hair care, the three highest-commercial-impact formats for the Pakistani market are: (1) Conditioning shampoo — the dominant hair wash format in Pakistan; adding PQ-7 at 1–2% active transforms a basic shampoo into a premium conditioning product with a price premium consumers will pay; (2) Leave-in anti-frizz spray — a rapidly growing format particularly among urban women in Karachi and Lahore seeking humidity and heat protection; PQ-7 at 2% active in lightweight water base is exceptionally effective; (3) Deep conditioning hair mask — a weekend or pre-occasion use product (especially popular in bridal hair preparation) allowing higher PQ-7 loading (2–3%) for intensive treatment of damaged or chemically processed hair. For skin care, PQ-7 at 0.3–0.8% in a lightweight water-based serum suits Pakistan's hot, humid climate better than heavy cream formulations. Recommended Urdu brand naming vocabulary: Narm-o-Chiknai (نرم و چکنائی — Softness and Slip, for product range names); Resham (ریشم — Silk, for premium conditioner names); Baalon Ki Sehat (بالوں کی صحت — Hair Health, for functional positioning); Narm Baalon Ki Dhulai (نرم بالوں کی دھلائی — Soft Hair Wash, for shampoo); Resham Spray (ریشم اسپرے — Silk Spray, for leave-in). In Lahore's intense summer heat, the key consumer benefit claim is "ek hi dhulai mein narm baalon ka ehsaas" (the feeling of soft hair in one wash) — PQ-7 delivers this meaningfully faster than traditional oil-only conditioning approaches.
Everything on this page and substantially more — complete free-radical copolymerisation synthesis mechanism with step-by-step diagrams and monomer purity control protocols, full structure-activity relationship analysis of the DADMAC piperidinium ring charge mechanism, detailed CIR safety assessment review including NOAEL data and acrylamide exposure modelling, coacervation deposition mechanism explained with surfactant concentration curves, combing force reduction studies (30–60% at 0.5–2% PQ-7), static charge neutralisation measurements (70–90% reduction), SEM confirmation of polymer film on cuticle surface, Tibb-e-Nabawi and Unani hair care context, Pakistani market brand concept analysis (three complete product concepts: Resham Baalon Ka Shampoo, Resham Spray, Velvet Touch Body Wash), full stability testing protocol for Pakistan climate conditions, glossary of 18 key polymer chemistry and formulation terms, and advanced formulation strategies for every major product type from baby shampoo to men's beard wash.
