What Is Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer?
Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-based material created by linking two different silicone polymers: polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone and bis-vinyldimethicone. The result is a three-dimensional network that behaves as a soft, flexible powder. Silicones start life as silica, the same mineral found in beach sand. Through a series of steps that replace oxygen atoms with methyl groups, chemists turn brittle silica into smooth, silky fluids and elastomers used in cosmetics.
The use of crosslinked silicones in beauty products gained speed in the late 1990s when formulators noticed that these materials could add cushion and a velvety feel without heavy oils. This particular crosspolymer was introduced soon after, offering a lighter texture and better spreadability than earlier silicone powders.
Manufacturing involves mixing the parent silicone oils with a platinum catalyst, then heating the blend so the vinyl groups form strong bonds, locking the chains together. Once cured, the solid network is milled into a fine powder or dispersed in a carrier fluid, ready to be added to creams, lotions and color cosmetics.
You will most often see this ingredient in primers, foundations, BB creams, moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-aging serums and clay or peel-off masks where it improves texture and application.
Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays one main role in a formula: it controls how thick or thin the product feels and behaves.
As a viscosity-controlling agent it can thicken watery formulations to prevent run-off, or add a silky slip to heavier creams so they glide on smoothly. By fine-tuning flow it helps lotions spread evenly, keeps pigments from settling and gives finished products a soft focus finish that blurs small lines and pores.
Who Can Use Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer
This silicone powder is considered skin friendly for most people. It sits on top of the skin rather than soaking in so it usually works well for dry, normal, combination and even oily types that want a smooth feel without extra grease. Extremely acne prone users who break out easily from any film formers might prefer to patch test first because silicones can trap oil if cleansers are not thorough.
The ingredient is synthetic and contains no animal derivatives which makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No evidence links this crosspolymer to problems during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear every skincare product with a doctor just to be safe.
It does not cause photosensitivity so there is no special sun-exposure caution beyond normal daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer differ between individuals. The following are potential reactions only. When the ingredient is used correctly most people will not notice any negative effects.
- Redness itching or rash from rare allergic contact dermatitis
- Clogged pores or breakouts in very acne prone skin if residue is not fully cleansed
- Mild stinging or watering if the product gets into the eyes
- Folliculitis in sensitive areas such as the hairline when applied heavily
- Dryness or flaking when layered with high alcohol formulas in those with already compromised skin barriers
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
This crosslinked silicone sits on the surface and forms a breathable mesh that is too large to slip into pores, so it is very unlikely to block them. It is free of heavy oils and waxes that typically cause congestion which is why its comedogenic score remains low.
Suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, provided they remove their makeup or sunscreen thoroughly at the end of the day.
Products heavy in other occlusive ingredients can still clog pores, so always judge the full formula rather than this single component.
Summary
Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer is mainly a viscosity controller that fine-tunes thickness, boosts spreadability and lends a silky, soft focus finish. Its three-dimensional silicone network traps tiny pockets of air which gives creams and makeups a cushiony feel while helping pigments stay evenly suspended.
Although not the most talked-about silicone in beauty circles, it is quietly popular in primers, foundations, sunscreens and lightweight moisturizers where a smooth glide is prized.
The ingredient ranks high for safety with very rare irritation or sensitization reports. Still, skin can react unpredictably so it is wise to patch test any new product before full use.