Polyquaternium-61
AKA “Polyquaternium 61, PQ-61
Skin Conditioning
Ingredient Facts
Polyquaternium-61
AKA: Polyquaternium 61, PQ-61
Skin Conditioning · Film Forming · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Occlusive
Skin Conditioner
Clean
2-Methyl-2-propenoyloxyethyl N,N,N-trimethylammonioethyl phosphate inner salt, polymer with octadecyl 2-methyl-2-propenoate
CAS #
-
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic conditioning polymer developed for use in hair and personal care products. Designed to improve texture, shine, and conditioning properties in modern cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR