Polyquaternium-39
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Polyquaternium-51, Polyquaterniums, Polymer
Synthetic polymer | An anti-static and film-forming agent + hair fixative
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Polyquaternium-39?
Polyquaternium-39 is a synthetic polymer used in both skin care and hair care products. It can serve multiple functions, including as an anti-static agent, film-forming agent, and hair fixative. Polyquaternium-39 is used in cosmetics in concentrations up to 3% for both rinse-off and leave-on products. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled polyquaternium-39 safe in its current usage, where it determined in the amounts used in cosmetics it was nontoxic and non-irritating. In its raw form, polyquaternium-39 is a clear, viscous liquid.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, December 2016, ePublication [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581816669116]
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UL Prospector (supplier), Accessed December 2022, ePublication [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/5738/5720348/SpecKare-PQ-39-Polyquaternium-39]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Polyquaternium-22
A film-forming polymer that helps reduce static and improves product texture
Polyquaternium-28
A conditioning polymer that smooths the hair fibre and reduces static
Polyquaternium-37
A conditioning polymer that smooths hair texture and reduces static
Polyquaternium-4
A conditioning polymer that smooths hair texture and reduces static charge
Polyquaternium-44
A conditioning polymer that smooths the hair fibre and reduces static
Polyquaternium-47
A film-forming polymer that conditions skin and helps products adhere to the surface
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