Hair Conditioning
POLYSILSESQUIOXANE STEARDIMONIUM CHLORIDE
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A silicone polymer crossed with a quaternary ammonium conditioner — slick hair and frizz control. Generally safe as a rinse-off or leave-on conditioner.
Polysilsesquioxane steardimonium chloride is a hybrid polymer combining a polysilsesquioxane (cage-like silicone polymer) backbone with pendant steardimonium chloride (C18 quaternary ammonium) groups. It delivers the film-forming, conditioning, and smoothing benefits of silicones together with the static control and substantivity of cationic conditioners. Used in haircare (shampoos, conditioners, styling products) and some skincare. No dedicated SCCS opinion identified. Quaternary ammonium components can cause mild eye irritation at higher concentrations; silicone polymers raise long-term environmental persistence concerns. No GHS pictograms at typical use levels.
Function
Skin benefits
- Silicone-quaternary hybrid for hair and skin conditioning
- Combines film-forming silsesquioxane with cationic conditioning
- Reduces frizz and improves combability
Known concerns
- Limited independent safety review
- Silicone polymer biodegradability concerns
- Quaternary ammonium can mildly irritate eyes
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related hair conditionings
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.