Silicones quaternium-1

are linked together via oxygen bridges, "Quaternium-..." complex quaternary ammonium compounds in which the 4 hydrogen atoms of the ammonium cation are replaced by (often polymeric) organic residues (R). The different representatives of this group are distinguished by numbers, here quaternium-1
.Silcone quaternium-1 is used in cosmetic formulations. The complex silicone compound acts as an antistatic agent (reduces static charges by neutralizing the electrical charge on the surface, e.g. of hair) and as a hair conditioning agent (makes the hair easy to comb, smooth, soft and shiny and gives it volume).