What Is Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-based ingredient created by linking lauryl dimethicone with divinyl dimethicone. The resulting material is a soft, sponge-like powder that swells slightly when mixed with oils or silicones. Because it is derived from silicone chemistry rather than plant or animal sources, it is considered a synthetic ingredient.
Silicone elastomer powders like this first appeared in cosmetic labs in the late 1990s as formulators searched for new ways to give products a silky, non-greasy feel. Over time they became staples in makeup primers, lightweight moisturizers and oil-free sunscreens. Today the ingredient is manufactured through a controlled crosslinking reaction called hydrosilylation, where the two silicone building blocks bond in the presence of a platinum catalyst. After curing, the solid network is milled into a fine, free-flowing powder ready for use in finished products.
You will most often spot Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer in products that need a smooth texture or light mattifying effect such as liquid and powder foundations, BB and CC creams, primers, pressed powders, oil-free moisturizers, clay or cream masks, stick sunscreens, hair styling creams and cleansing balms.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multi-tasking silicone brings two key technical benefits to beauty formulas
- Cleansing: Its porous structure can trap excess oil and dirt, helping cleansers lift grime from the skin or hair while leaving a soft finish
- Viscosity controlling: The powder swells in oils and silicone fluids, thickening the mix so lotions, creams and serums feel plush rather than runny while also improving spreadability and slip
Who Can Use Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Because this silicone powder is non reactive and free of common irritants, it suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin. Dry skin can use it too, though the ingredient itself does not add moisture so look for formulas that pair it with humectants or emollients.
Its synthetic origin means no animal by-products are involved, making it a vegan and vegetarian friendly choice.
The ingredient is not known to penetrate deeply or act systemically, so products containing it are generally considered safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past their doctor just to be safe.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no added risk of sunburn from using it. As with all skincare, daily sunscreen is still important.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely to be the typical user experience when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness, itching or a stinging sensation in very sensitive individuals
- Acne-like breakouts if the overall product is heavy or not removed fully, especially on very oily or acne prone skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in the rare event of a true silicone allergy
- Eye irritation if the powder or finished product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Build-up on hair leading to dullness or loss of volume when used in leave-in styling products without regular cleansing
If any discomfort or adverse reaction occurs stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer sits on the surface of skin in a breathable mesh that is less occlusive than heavier silicones or oils. Because the particles are solid and inert they do not readily clog pores, earning the ingredient a very low comedogenic score. Most acne-prone users can tolerate it well, although those extremely sensitive to any film-forming agents might still prefer lighter formulas. Keep in mind that the overall product formula and how thoroughly it is removed matter more for breakouts than this single powder does.
Summary
Vinyl Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer thickens formulas and helps them cleanse more effectively by swelling in oils then trapping excess sebum and debris. It leaves a soft, silky feel that makes primers, liquid foundations and lightweight creams glide on smoothly without a greasy afterfeel.
While not as famous as dimethicone or silica this crosspolymer has carved out a loyal following in modern makeup bases and oil-free skincare because it delivers matte slip without heaviness.
Safety profiles show it is non irritating, non sensitizing and largely non comedogenic when used as intended. Still, skin can differ from person to person so it is always wise to patch test any new product that contains this or any other active ingredient.