Quaternium-73 is easy to mis-specify when a formula brief only says “PQ-73” or “acne ingredient.” For this raw material, start with the identity and batch documents. ZLEY’s published technical data sheet (TDS) lists Quaternium-73, CAS 15763-48-1, and a suggested use range of 0,001–0,05%. The much higher levels previously shown in this article were incorrect and should not be used as formulation guidance.
Identity and specification
Quaternium-73 is also called Pionin. PubChem lists CAS 15763-48-1 and molecular formula C23H39IN2S2. The ZLEY TDS specifies a yellowish to yellow crystalline powder, water content no more than 1.0%, and HPLC purity of at least 98.0%. A certificate of analysis (COA) for the actual batch should confirm the applicable release limits.
Do not confuse the name with a polyquaternium polymer. If an inventory entry says “Polyquaternium-73,” resolve the INCI and CAS number before purchasing. Our Quaternium-73 naming guide explains that check in more detail.
How does the supplier suggest using it?
The published TDS suggests 0.001–0.05% and recommends predissolving Quaternium-73 in ethanol, butanediol or glutarediol before addition to the formula. These are supplier starting points, not a universal legal maximum or proof of performance in every base. Confirm the latest TDS and the requirements of the target market before selecting a use level.
| Vérifier | Practical question |
|---|---|
| Identité | Do INCI, CAS and COA match the ordered material? |
| Predissolution | Does the chosen solvent dissolve the ingredient at the intended concentration? |
| Compatibilité | Does the final base remain clear or uniform after adding extracts, polymers, surfactants and preservatives? |
| Stabilité | Do appearance, odor, assay and packaging performance remain acceptable during the product’s shelf life? |
| Tolerance | Has the finished formula been assessed for its intended users and application pattern? |
A bench trial is more useful than copying a percentage from another brand’s formula. Record the addition order, processing temperature and observed changes, then repeat stability and compatibility checks in the intended final package.
Safety and claims need separate evidence
Le ZLEY SDS describes skin, eye and respiratory irritation hazards for handling the concentrated powder. Use suitable workplace controls and avoid treating raw-material handling information as a finished-product safety conclusion. Conversely, a supplier’s suggested dose does not replace assessment of the finished cosmetic.
ZLEY positions Quaternium-73 for oil-control and acne-prone skin concepts, and its TDS describes antimicrobial and acne-related activity. Claims for a final serum, toner or lotion must still be supported by evidence for that product and reviewed under the rules of its intended market. Do not imply an acne drug approval or promise a clinical outcome solely because the ingredient is present.
What should a buyer request?
- Current COA showing the batch’s identity, appearance, assay and relevant impurities.
- Current TDS with suggested use, processing and storage guidance.
- Current SDS for safe handling and transport.
- Documents needed for the specific market and finished-product safety assessment.
See the ZLEY Quaternium-73 product page for available document downloads. Before scale-up, reconcile any differences between an older web page, the current TDS and the supplied batch COA.
Questions fréquemment posées
Is 0.5–2% the recommended Quaternium-73 level?
No. Those figures appeared in an older version of this article and conflicted with ZLEY’s published TDS, which suggests 0.001–0.05%. Use the current supplier documents and finished-formula assessment.
Can Quaternium-73 be added directly to water?
The published TDS recommends predissolution in ethanol, butanediol or glutarediol. Verify the procedure for the actual formula with a bench trial and the current technical team guidance.