What Is Polysilicone-28?
Polysilicone-28 is a specialty silicone made by first reacting aminopropyl dimethicone with a sulfur-containing ring called the thiolactone of acetylhomocysteine. This step adds tiny sulfur groups to the silicone backbone. The modified silicone is then linked with two small acrylic molecules, dimethylacrylamide and t-butylacrylamide, to form a larger copolymer. The finished ingredient looks like a clear fluid or soft resin that blends smoothly into water-based or alcohol-based formulas.
Synthetic silicones began to show up in hair sprays during the 1950s for their shiny finish and flexible hold. As styles changed and consumers wanted softer touchable hair, chemists searched for polymers that could grab onto hair without leaving it stiff or flaky. Polysilicone-28 was introduced in the early 2000s to meet that need. Its balanced mix of silicone segments and acrylic segments lets it form an invisible film that moves with the hair.
Today Polysilicone-28 is found mainly in styling products such as hair sprays, setting lotions, mousses and shape-memory creams. It may also appear in leave-in conditioners and frizz-control serums where light hold is an added bonus.
Polysilicone-28’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays one key role in hair care formulas.
Hair fixing: Polysilicone-28 forms a flexible film that helps set a hairstyle in place while still allowing the strands to bend and bounce. The film resists humidity so it keeps curls defined and smooth styles neat for longer. Because the polymer is clear and low in tack it avoids the dullness and flaking that sometimes come with traditional hair spray resins.
Who Can Use Polysilicone-28
Polysilicone-28 is considered gentle enough for all skin and scalp types, including sensitive, oily or dry conditions, because it sits on the surface rather than sinking deeply into pores or follicles. People with very fine hair may prefer lighter application since any film former can add slight weight.
The polymer is produced entirely from synthetic raw materials, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians and there is no need for animal-derived stabilizers or carriers.
No safety flags specific to pregnancy or breastfeeding have been reported for topical use. The molecule is large and unlikely to penetrate, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of their styling products to a doctor or midwife before use.
Polysilicone-28 does not increase photosensitivity and can be worn during daytime without additional sun precautions beyond a normal sunscreen routine. It is also safe on color-treated or chemically processed hair.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polysilicone-28 differ from one individual to another. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation such as itching flushing or tightness
- Product buildup that can leave hair flat or dull if not shampooed out periodically
- Allergic contact dermatitis in users sensitive to silicones or acrylamide copolymers
- Eye irritation or watering if spray mist gets into the eyes
If any of these problems occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Polysilicone-28 is a very large, water-dispersible silicone copolymer that stays on the surface of hair or skin rather than seeping into follicles. Its slick, low-tack film does not trap sebum or debris and it is easily removed with regular shampooing or face wash, so it has virtually no tendency to clog pores.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone users.
The only time buildup could become an issue is if several heavy styling products are layered without cleansing for days at a stretch, in which case a clarifying wash will clear it away.
Summary
Polysilicone-28 is a specialty silicone designed to fix hairstyles by forming a clear, flexible film that resists humidity while keeping hair touchably soft. Its balance of silicone and acrylic segments lets it coat strands evenly, hold shape, fight frizz and add light gloss without flakes.
The polymer is not one of the big headline ingredients and you will mainly spot it in select sprays, mousses and leave-ins from salon or professional lines rather than every drugstore product. Still, formulators value it for delivering modern, brushable hold.
Overall safety is high: the molecule is large, inert, non-comedogenic and vegan friendly, with irritation or allergy reports being rare. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test a product that contains Polysilicone-28 just to make sure it agrees with your skin and scalp.