murphyPolyquaternium-11
molecular structure · PubChem
Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
OriginDerived from cellulose or other polysaccharide polymers combined with quaternary ammonium compounds. Synthesized through chemical modification of polymer backbones with quaternary ammonium salt groups via etherification or esterification reactions.
2-Propenoic acid, 2-methyl-, 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl ester, polymer with 1-ethenyl-2-pyrrolidinone, compd. with diethyl sulphate
CAS #
53633-54-8
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Antistatic
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Anti-Inflammatory
Moisturizing
Fights Acne
Creates protective layer
Reduces flyaways
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
4 studies / 4 not sensitizing (CIR 225)
Not Phototoxic
CIR Panel statement found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 225)
Eye Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating / reactions mild (CIR 225)
Skin Irritant in Testing
4 studies / 4 irritating / reactions minimal to mild (CIR 225)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.05–2.9%
Rinse-off0.08–0.6%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2023 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR