What Is Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer?
Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer is a silicone based ingredient created by linking two different silicone materials: dimethicone, a smooth flexible silicone oil, and vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate, a resin that dries into a thin film. When these two are chemically crosslinked they form a stable copolymer that combines the softness of dimethicone with the stay-put power of the resin.
The raw materials come from silica, the same mineral that makes up sand and quartz. Through a series of controlled reactions the silica is first turned into siloxanes, then into dimethicone and vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate. Finally the two are bonded together in a reactor where heat and catalysts encourage the chains to link and set, forming the crosspolymer powder that goes into cosmetic labs.
Silicone resins entered the beauty scene in the 1950s when chemists discovered their impressive spreadability and water resistance. Over time brands wanted products that felt lighter yet stayed longer, so suppliers blended flexible dimethicone with film-forming resins. The resulting crosspolymer quickly found a place in color cosmetics during the 1990s and today it appears in everything from skin care to hair styling aids.
You will most often see Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer in foundations, primers, long-wear lipsticks, waterproof mascaras, sunscreens, mattifying moisturizers, setting sprays and leave-in hair serums. It is prized for giving formulas a silky touch while helping them resist sweat, oil and humidity.
Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers a practical mix of performance perks that make products feel better and last longer
- Film forming: Creates an invisible flexible layer on skin or hair that locks pigments in place boosts water resistance and helps active ingredients stay where they are applied
- Viscosity controlling: Adjusts the thickness of a formula so it spreads evenly without feeling heavy improving application and reducing greasiness
Who Can Use Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer
Because this crosspolymer is non-irritating and non-sensitizing it tends to work for every skin type including dry oily combination and sensitive. It sits on the surface rather than soaking in so even reactive skin usually tolerates it well. Extremely acne-prone users who avoid all silicones may prefer to skip it though most evidence shows it does not clog pores on its own.
The ingredient is synthetic and does not rely on any animal source so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in normal cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new products just to be sure.
Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more likely to burn in the sun. As always daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer differ from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet most users will not run into any problems when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild stinging or redness: Rare and usually short-lived if it occurs
- Temporary clogged pores: Very uncommon but can happen if the product is layered with heavy oils or not removed thoroughly
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction is possible though documented cases are extremely limited
- Eye irritation: If the powder gets into the eyes during application of loose formulations it may cause watering or discomfort
- Build-up on hair strands: Repeated use in leave-in styling products can leave a coating that makes hair feel weighed down until washed out with a clarifying shampoo
If you experience any of these effects discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 (very low)
Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer has a large molecular size and forms a breathable film that sits on top of skin rather than soaking into pores. It is also chemically inert so skin enzymes and bacteria do not break it down into pore-clogging pieces. For these reasons it is classed as very low on the comedogenic scale.
Most acne-prone users can safely use products containing this silicone blend without seeing extra breakouts.
As with any film former, build-up from heavy layering or incomplete cleansing could trap existing debris, so thorough makeup removal at the end of the day is always smart.
Summary
Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer is a dual-action silicone that smooths formulas while locking them in place. As a film former it lays down an invisible shield that boosts wear time, water resistance and color payoff. As a viscosity controller it fine-tunes texture so creams feel silky, sprays mist evenly and gels glide without drag.
The ingredient is a quiet workhorse found in many long-wear foundations, lip colors, sunscreens and styling serums, yet it rarely makes the front label. Chemists reach for it because it delivers reliable performance in small amounts without weighing skin or hair down.
Current research shows the crosspolymer is non-irritating, non-sensitizing and safe for all skin types when used as directed. Still, every complexion is unique so patch test any new product that features this ingredient to be on the safe side.