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Silky (Polyquaternium 22) PQ-22
Silky (Polyquaternium 22) PQ-22
Key Functions: Acts as a dual-function cationic conditioning polymer that enhances smoothness, hydration, and anti-static effects in hair and skin care.
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Information About Silky (Polyquaternium 22) PQ-22
✅ Key Features
- Provides long-lasting softness and smoothness
- Reduces static and improves combability in hair
- Forms a moisture-retaining film on skin
- Compatible with anionic and non-ionic systems
- Ideal for shampoos, conditioners, face washes, and lotions
🔬 Description
Silky (Polyquaternium-22 / PQ-22) – Dual-Action Conditioning Polymer for Skin & Hair
Silky (Polyquaternium-22 / PQ-22) is a high-performance, amphoteric copolymer designed to deliver exceptional conditioning, anti-static, and moisture-locking properties in both hair and skin care formulations. Unlike some other conditioning agents, PQ-22 works across a wide pH range and is compatible with most surfactant systems. It forms a smooth, soft film that reduces frizz, dryness, and irritation, making it perfect for cleansers, face washes, shampoos, body washes, and leave-in treatments. It’s especially useful in sulfate-free and clear formulations where clarity and performance are required.
📊 Technical Data
INCI Name: Polyquaternium-22
CAS Number: 53694-17-0
Solubility: Water-soluble
Add Phase: Water phase
pH Stability: 3.0 – 10.0
Processing Temperature: Below 70°C
Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy liquid
Odor: Mild to odorless
Molecular Formula: Copolymer (no fixed structure)
Molecular Weight: High (variable)
Flash Point: > 100°C
Density: ~1.0 g/cm³
Chemical Type: Amphoteric copolymer
Functional Groups: Cationic ammonium, acrylic backbone
Primary Cosmetic Uses: Hair conditioning, skin-softening, anti-static, rinse-off & leave-on
🧪 Recommended Usage
- Usage Rate: 0.5% – 5%
- Phase: Add to water phase or post-emulsification
- Ideal For: Shampoos, Body Washes, Face Washes, Creams, Leave-In Hair Products
💡 Pro Tip
✨ Use Polyquaternium-22 in combination with mild surfactants and humectants like glycerin for balanced cleansing and conditioning. For clear products, maintain below 2% to avoid haziness.
👩🔬 Skin Type Compatibility
✔️ Suitable for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, and acne-prone
✔️ Gentle and non-irritating for rinse-off and leave-on formulations
✔️ Ideal for daily-use products
🧴 Formulation Ideas
1. Sulfate-Free Shampoo Base
Combine 2% PQ-22 with mild surfactants for softness and shine without irritation.
2. Hydrating Face Wash
Use 1% in a gel cleanser with panthenol and aloe for a soft after-feel.
3. Moisturizing Cream or Lotion
Add 0.5%–1% PQ-22 for smoother texture and skin conditioning.
4. Detangling Leave-In Spray
Use 3% with hydrolyzed keratin and glycerin for frizz control and easy combing.
5. Soothing Baby Wash
Blend with chamomile extract and betaine for gentle cleansing and skin conditioning.
💧 Cosmetic Suitability:
Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds silky after-feel and mild conditioning.
Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Improves spread and skin hydration.
Toners
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – May be used in gel toners or micellar waters.
Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Adds a smooth base and moisture retention.
Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Leaves skin soft, not tight after wash.
Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Key player in detangling and shine.
Deodorants
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Rarely used.
Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Adds glide, but not a common choice.
Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Adds softness and smooth rinse-off.
Soaps
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Limited compatibility in cold-process soaps.
Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Great for light and heavy conditioner systems.
Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used for lips.
Body Butters
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Optional for improving spread.
Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Adds film-forming texture if needed.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Is PQ-22 safe for daily use?
A1: Yes, it’s non-irritating and suitable for daily-use cleansers and conditioners.
Q2: Can it be used in transparent gels?
A2: Yes, but keep levels under 2% for optical clarity.
Q3: Is it the same as PQ-10?
A3: No — PQ-22 is amphoteric and film-forming, whereas PQ-10 is cationic cellulose-based.
Q4: Can I use it in both rinse-off and leave-on products?
A4: Absolutely! PQ-22 performs well in both.
Q5: Is this suitable for baby care?
A5: Yes, it’s very gentle and commonly used in baby shampoos and washes.
📂 Documentation
Upon request, we will provide.
Where Can You Safely Use Silky (Polyquaternium 22) PQ-22
Discover how Silky (Polyquaternium 22) PQ-22 performs across different products — rated for safety, stability, and effectiveness.