What Is Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane?
Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane is a silicone-based polymer built on a repeating siloxane backbone that has been modified with dimethylaminobenzamide side groups. These added groups give the material extra antioxidant and light-protective traits while the silicone skeleton supplies the silky touch silicones are known for.
The ingredient traces its roots to the post-World War II boom in silicone chemistry, when researchers began adding different organic fragments to siloxane chains to tailor feel, spreadability and stability. By the early 2000s formulators were looking for a way to merge the smooth feel of classic silicones with the protective benefits of UV-absorbing fragments, which led to the development of this hybrid polymer.
Production starts with methyltrialkoxysilane, which undergoes controlled hydrolysis and condensation to create a cage-like polysilsesquioxane network. In a separate step, a dimethylaminobenzamide-bearing propyl silane is grafted onto the network. The process is carried out in solvent-free or low-solvent reactors then the resin is filtered and milled into a fine powder or dispersed in a silicone fluid for easier use.
You will most often spot Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane in facial sunscreens, anti-aging serums, long-wear foundations, primers, hair styling sprays, leave-on conditioners and protective hand creams where it boosts wear time and guards the formula against light-induced breakdown.
Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below are the main ways this multi-tasking polymer supports a cosmetic formula
- Antioxidant – helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV rays or pollution which can keep both the product and the skin looking fresher for longer
- Film Forming – creates a flexible thin layer on the surface that locks in moisture, improves product wear time and offers a soft finish without a heavy feel
- Light Stabilizer – absorbs and dissipates portions of UV light reducing photo-degradation of delicate actives and helping colors remain true
- Skin Conditioning – leaves skin feeling smooth and silky improving slip and spreadability during application
- Emollient – softens and smooths the skin surface providing quick yet lightweight hydration
Who Can Use Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane
This silicone polymer is generally well tolerated by most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin because it is non occlusive and lightweight. Sensitive or highly reactive skin usually handles it well too since silicones have an inert nature, though anyone with a known silicone intolerance should approach with caution. It is not considered acnegenic so it is unlikely to trigger breakouts in blemish-prone users.
Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane is synthesized entirely from laboratory-made raw materials without animal derivatives so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No reproductive toxicity has been linked to this ingredient and regulatory bodies have not flagged it for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review any skincare product with their doctor for individual guidance.
The polymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. In fact its light-stabilizing action can help protect formulas exposed to UV. It is also odorless, colorless and free of known allergens making it a low-risk choice for leave-on products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane differ from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects yet most consumers will experience none of them when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.
- Mild transient redness
- Slight itching or tingling in very sensitive skin
- Watery eyes or irritation if aerosol hair products contact the eye area
- Rare clogging for individuals who react poorly to any film formers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in users already sensitized to silicone structures (extremely uncommon)
If irritation or any adverse effect develops discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
This polymer sits on top of the skin as an airy, flexible film and has molecules too large to slip into pores so it is classed as non-comedogenic. It also contains no fatty acids or waxy residues that might trap sebum or debris.
Because of this low score it is generally fine for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. In rare cases a very dense formulation that combines the polymer with heavier oils could still feel occlusive, but the ingredient itself poses little clogging risk.
Summary
Dimethylaminobenzamidopropyl/Methyl Polysilsesquioxane acts as an antioxidant, film former, light stabilizer, skin conditioner and emollient. Its silicone backbone spreads into a weightless mesh that smooths texture, while the dimethylaminobenzamide side groups quench free radicals and soak up bits of UV to protect both skin and delicate actives. The film it creates locks in moisture and extends wear without a greasy after-feel.
You will mostly spot this hybrid silicone in newer sunscreens, long-wear makeup and some premium hair products rather than on every drugstore shelf, so its popularity is growing but it is still a niche workhorse rather than a household name.
Current safety data show it to be low risk for irritation, sensitization or pore clogging when used as intended, yet skin is individual so it is always smart to patch test any new product that features this ingredient.