Question 1

What does Quaternium-90 Montmorillonite do in a cosmetic formula?

Accepted Answer

This ingredient is a rheology modifier and suspension stabilizer, mainly used to thicken oils, solvents, and anhydrous systems. It helps keep pigments, powders, and actives evenly dispersed while improving product structure.

Question 2

Is Quaternium-90 Montmorillonite clean?

Accepted Answer

From a clean-beauty perspective, it has friction because it is a synthetically surface-modified mineral using quaternary ammonium chemistry. The main review points are possible residual cationic modifier, irritation potential at higher levels, and restricted-list scrutiny around some quaternary compounds.

Question 3

Is Quaternium-90 Montmorillonite sustainable?

Accepted Answer

The mineral base is mined and nonrenewable, while the surface treatment is typically derived from petrochemical or oleochemical feedstocks. It is not readily biodegradable as a solid mineral complex, and the cationic treatment gives it a weaker aquatic profile than untreated clays.

Question 4

Is Quaternium-90 Montmorillonite COSMOS-approved?

Accepted Answer

It is generally not aligned with COSMOS-natural or COSMOS-organic because the synthetic quaternary ammonium surface treatment falls outside simple natural-mineral processing. Its Green Chemistry fit is mixed, with good low-dose performance but weaker marks for renewability, biodegradability, and end-of-life profile.

Question 5

How does Quaternium-90 Montmorillonite work chemically?

Accepted Answer

This material is a layered aluminosilicate clay whose platelets are surface-exchanged with long-chain quaternary ammonium cations, making the surface more compatible with oils and organic solvents. It is commonly used around 0.5% to 5% in anhydrous gels, color cosmetics, and suspensions, and it usually needs shear and sometimes a polar activator to fully build viscosity.