Encyclopedia · styling polymer
Polyquaternium-11
A positively charged vinylpyrrolidone copolymer used in mousses, gels and sprays for clear, flexible hold with some conditioning.
What it is
Polyquaternium-11 is a quaternised copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, a charged member of the PVP family. A 1989 industry review lists the vinylpyrrolidone copolymer classes (Petter 1989). See styling products explained.
How it works
Because it is positively charged, it is attracted to the negatively charged surface of damaged hair. It deposits as a thin film that smooths the surface and reduces flyaway. This is general cationic-polymer behaviour and common formulation practice. At high levels it can feel tacky.
What the studies show
- No hair-performance trial was found, so the evidence is manufacturer claims only.
- A 2024 safety review of 30 vinylpyrrolidone polymers judged 27 safe as used. We could not confirm whether polyquaternium-11 is in that group (Johnson 2024).
- An earlier ingredient safety report on polyquaternium-11 exists from 1983, but we did not read its conclusion.
How it's used in studies
None found.
Side effects and safety
Supplier data sheets list possible skin or eye irritation. Cationic polymers can build up with daily use and leave hair coated or heavy.
Bottom line
A mainstream, low-risk styling ingredient. There is no independent evidence of benefit beyond manufacturer claims, so we are not confident about its performance.
Studies 2
Petter PJ. Acetylene-derived polymers and their applications in hair and skin care. Int J Cosmet Sci. 1989
Tested: vinylpyrrolidone polymers and copolymers in hair care
Result: Industry review: PVP was the first synthetic hairspray resin; describes the vinylpyrrolidone copolymer classes (with vinyl acetate, DMAEMA and others) used in hair care.
Read the study ↗Johnson W Jr et al. Safety Assessment of Vinylpyrrolidone Polymers as Used in Cosmetics. Int J Toxicol. 2024
Tested: 30 vinylpyrrolidone polymers
Result: The expert panel judged 27 of 30 safe as used in cosmetics; the 3 exceptions (all urethanes) had insufficient data.
Read the study ↗Related
- PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone)A water-soluble film-forming polymer that gives temporary, washable hold in gels, mousses and sprays.
- VP/VA copolymerA vinylpyrrolidone and vinyl acetate polymer used in sprays, mousses and gels for firmer, less humidity-sensitive hold than plain PVP.
- Acrylates copolymerA family of acrylic polymers that thicken styling gels and dry to a hard, clear film for strong hold.
- Styling products explainedStyling products come down to how much hold and how much shine you want; there are almost no head-to-head trials, so this page combines formulation knowledge with the few things that have been measured.