hair conditioning agent
QUATERNIUM-8
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Quaternium-8 is a long-chain quaternary ammonium hair conditioning agent used to reduce frizz, improve combability, and add substantivity, typical of established cationic conditioners.
Skin benefits
- Quaternary ammonium hair conditioning and antistatic agent
- Reduces frizz and improves wet combability
- Provides substantivity to hair fibres
- Stable across typical hair-care formulation conditions
Known concerns
- Long-alkyl quats can cause mild eye irritation
- Less biodegradable than newer esterquat alternatives
- Possible contact sensitisation in rare cases
- Limited dedicated public toxicology relative to common quats
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related hair conditioning agents
Check your shelf
Find QUATERNIUM-8 in your products.
Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains QUATERNIUM-8 and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.
This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.