Polyquaternium-36
AKA “PQ-36, Polyquaternium-36
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Polyquaternium-36
AKA: PQ-36
Synthetic · Film Forming · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Synthetic
Clean
2-Propenoic acid, 2-methyl-, 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl ester, polymer with butyl 2-methyl-propenoate, quaternary ammonium reaction products with dimethyl sulfate Science: Functions: Antistatic, Film Forming 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.
Reduces Static
Creates Protective Barrier
Creates protective layer
Reduces flyaways
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic polymer developed in the 2000s for cosmetics. Created to provide conditioning and moisturizing benefits with enhanced biocompatibility and gentleness for sensitive applications.
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