Polyquaternium-48
AKA “PQ-48, Polyquaternium-48
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyquaternium-48
AKA: PQ-48
Synthetic · Film Forming · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Synthetic
Clean
Polyquaternium-48 is the polymeric quaternary ammonium salt of formed from methacryloyl ethyl betaine, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and methacryloyl ethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride Science: Functions: Antistatic, Film Forming, Hair Fixing Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
CAS #
-
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Antistatic
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Hair Fixing
Reduces Static
Creates Protective Barrier
Creates protective layer
Reduces flyaways
Holds hair in place
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer developed in the 2000s for advanced cosmetic formulations. Designed to provide conditioning and styling benefits with enhanced moisturization and improved rinse characteristics.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR