Quats (Quaternary compounds) are positively-charged (cationic) ingredients that add extra conditioning, moisturizing, and also improve the sensory properties of formulations. They are generally compatible with anionic, amphoteric, cationic, and nonionic surfactants, which makes them versatile in all kinds of formulas. They can be used in both hair and skincare formulas. All quats are not equal – thats why we have a list of ultra special quats to transform your formulations.
However, all quats are not created equal – beyond the simpler ones (such as polyquat-7) you can find more specialized quats that bring both superior performance and premium sensory experience to your formulations. Here are some of the specialized quats we stock – they are silicon-free and do not cause build-up associated with the infamous quaternium-10.
AMINOSILK QUAT
This is a naturally-derived glucose quaternary compound linked with silk amino acids. It offers both conditioning and hair repair properties. This quat is also beneficial in skin care – it rejuvenates the skin, hydrates it, and helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
Benefits: Reduces tackiness – gives a fresh and light, silky, premium skin feel. In cleansers, it gives a premium light skin feel and leaves the skin softer. Reduces irritation and dryness associated with surfactants. In hair care, it softens and smoothens the hair leaving it with a soft and silky premium feel. The small-sized silk molecules help repair split ends and damage to the cuticle.
Applications: serums, gels, lotions creams, cleansers, conditioners, bath gels, shampoos
Use rate: 1.0 – 5.0%
SILKQUAT-39
Silkquat is a conditioning, surfactant thickening booster, and foam-boosting ingredient.
Benefits: In shampoos and cleansers, it creates rich, thick long-lasting foam. It reduces the irritation associated with surfactants. It gives a soft after-skin feel. Superior wet and dry combing properties. Boosts curl retention without flakiness. In skincare formulas, it enhances moisturization and a velvety skin feel.
Applications: Gels, lotions, creams, cleansers, conditioners, bath gels, and shampoos.
Use rate: 1.0 – 4.0%
SEAWEED SUGAR-QUAT
This is a naturally derived quat linked with trehalose – a seaweed sugar known for its hydrating properties. It offers conditioning with increased hydration.
Benefits: Gives a fresh, light, and soft skin feel with increased hydration. In cleansers, it reduces irritation and leaves the skin feeling softer, hydrated. In hair care, it boosts the hair’s ability to retain moisture, softens, and smoothens the hair.
Applications: serums, gels, lotions creams, cleansers, conditioners, bath gels, shampoos
Use rate: 0.5 – 7.0%
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Aminosilk Quat
Quaternary silk compound with excellent conditioning and silky after-feel for both skincare and hair care.
Seaweed Sugar-Quat
Naturally-derived quat with unique moisture-imparting benefits for premium products and effects
SilkQuat – 39
- Superior conditioning for both rinse-off and leave-on haircare products
Looking for inspiration on how to use one of these ultra special quats? Check out this free formula: It’s an Ultra-light serum base that uses Aminosilk Quat, Tremella Hyaluron, and Carrot Bioferment. It leaves a silky-fresh skin feel. You can customize this formula by adding ingredients of choice and subtracting the concentration from the water phase. Best of luck!