What Is Polysilicone-16?
Polysilicone-16 is a specialty silicone polymer officially described as hydrolyzed collagen PG-propyl caprylyl dimethicone silsesquioxane. In simple terms it marries tiny fragments of collagen with a lightweight silicone backbone, creating a film-forming material that feels silky yet flexible on skin. The ingredient was first explored in the late 1990s when formulators looked for ways to make collagen derivatives more stable in water-based creams. By grafting collagen peptides onto a silsesquioxane cage they achieved a molecule that resists breakdown, spreads easily and adds body to products.
Manufacturing starts with hydrolyzed collagen—collagen broken down into smaller peptides—reacted with propylene glycol and caprylyl dimethicone units. Through controlled condensation a three-dimensional silsesquioxane network forms around the collagen pieces. The result is a soft free-flowing powder or viscous fluid that disperses well in both water and oil phases.
You will spot Polysilicone-16 in face masks, anti-aging serums, moisturizers, primers, hair conditioners and color cosmetics like foundations or BB creams. Its ability to thicken formulas while leaving a smooth finish makes it popular in products that promise a plush cushiony feel without a greasy after-touch.
Polysilicone-16’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main purpose in topical products and that is as a bulking agent.
As a bulking agent Polysilicone-16 adds desirable substance to a formula, giving creams and serums a richer body so they feel luxurious when applied. It can replace heavier waxes or clays which means the end product remains lightweight and breathable while still looking and feeling substantial in the jar.
Who Can Use Polysilicone-16
Polysilicone-16 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including dry, oily or combination skin thanks to its lightweight breathable film. Its silky finish can also soothe the feel of sensitive skin although anyone with a known silicone sensitivity should proceed with caution.
The collagen portion of this molecule is almost always sourced from animals so formulations containing Polysilicone-16 are typically not suitable for vegans or strict vegetarians.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Polysilicone-16 is used topically. That said this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with their physician first to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not induce photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays nicely with common actives such as retinol and vitamin C since it mainly sits on the surface rather than altering how other ingredients work.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Polysilicone-16 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Contact allergy in individuals sensitive to collagen or silicone derivatives
- Occlusive feel or clogged pores in very pore-congested skin when used in heavy layers
- Interaction with film-forming hair products that can lead to buildup on scalp or strands
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Polysilicone-16 sits on skin as a lightweight breathable film that allows water vapor to escape so it rarely traps oil or debris the way heavy oils or waxes can. Its large molecular structure also keeps it on the surface instead of slipping into pores. For these reasons formulators consider it practically non-pore clogging, assigning it a low score of 1 rather than a perfect 0 because any film former can still cause issues if layered heavily on very oily congested skin.
In most cases Polysilicone-16 is suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it is a powdery silicone, removal is easy with a standard cleanser which further limits the chance of buildup over time.
Summary
Polysilicone-16 is a collagen-grafted silicone that mainly acts as a bulking agent, adding plush body and a silky glide to creams, serums, primers and even hair products without weighing them down. It achieves this by forming a flexible lattice on the surface of skin or hair that boosts texture while letting moisture pass through.
It is not the most famous silicone on the market but its mix of cushiony feel and ease of use keeps it in steady rotation among formulators looking for a subtle thickener that will not grease up a formula.
Current data shows it to be very safe for topical use with only rare irritation reports. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a fresh product before full-face or daily application just to be sure your skin agrees with it.