What Is Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone?
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that combines dimethicone, a well-known silicone oil, with polyglycerin and a small aromatic group called oxyphenylpropyl. The polyglycerin part is made from glycerin, which comes from plant oils, while the dimethicone backbone is built from silica-derived materials. Chemists first explored this hybrid structure in the early 2000s when they were looking for silicones that could feel lighter, spread more evenly and rinse off more easily than classic dimethicone. The ingredient is produced through a controlled reaction where polyglycerin units and oxyphenylpropyl groups are linked to dimethicone chains in the presence of a catalyst, creating a stable yet flexible molecule that loves both oil and water. Because of this dual nature, it shows up in many beauty products: leave-in hair conditioners, styling creams, curl definers, facial moisturizers, primers, BB creams, sheet masks and anti-aging serums.
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient supports formulas in several helpful ways:
- Hair conditioning – Forms a thin, weightless film that smooths the cuticle, reduces frizz, adds shine and makes detangling easier without leaving heavy buildup
- Skin conditioning – Provides a silky glide, boosts softness, helps lock in moisture and improves the even spread of pigments and actives for a smoother finish
Who Can Use Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone
This silicone-glycerin hybrid is gentle enough for most skin types. Its lightweight texture suits oily and combination skin because it does not leave a greasy film, while the smoothing barrier it creates helps dry or mature skin retain water. Sensitive skin usually tolerates the ingredient well since it has low reactivity and no fragrance, though anyone with a known silicone sensitivity should proceed with caution.
The polyglycerin portion is sourced from plant oils and the dimethicone backbone is synthesized from silica, so the molecule itself is free from animal derivatives. As long as the finished product contains no other animal ingredients, it is considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
No data links Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone to reproductive or developmental risks, and it is not absorbed in significant amounts through healthy skin. Still, this is not medical advice. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss any skincare product with their health professional before use.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and non-volatile, making it appropriate for people who are sensitive to strong scents.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels and formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation – rare redness or itching, usually in people already sensitive to silicones
- Contact dermatitis – very uncommon allergic reaction that may present as a rash or bumps
- Eye irritation – slight stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Product buildup on hair – possible dullness or slight weight on fine hair if the formula is not cleansed out periodically
If you experience any discomfort or persistent reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5. Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone is a large, breathable silicone that sits on top of skin rather than soaking into pores. Its polyglycerin side makes the molecule more water friendly so it is less likely to trap oil or debris. Most users, including those prone to clogged pores, tolerate it well and do not notice an increase in breakouts.
This rating may tick slightly higher if the formula also contains heavy oils or if it is not removed thoroughly, but the ingredient itself is considered low clogging and generally fine for acne-prone skin.
Summary
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-3 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone conditions hair and skin by forming a light, flexible film that smooths cuticles, fills in tiny surface gaps and locks in moisture. The silicone backbone gives slip and shine while the polyglycerin pieces attract a touch of water so the finish feels silky rather than greasy. Because of this balanced feel it helps pigments glide evenly, tames frizz and leaves skin soft.
It is not yet a household name like plain dimethicone but formulators are adding it to newer creams, serums and leave-in sprays when they want a modern weightless silicone.
Safety studies find low irritation, negligible absorption and no links to sensitization, making it a dependable choice for most skin types. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to do a small patch test before full use just to make sure your skin agrees with it.