What Is Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer?
Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone based substance created by chemically linking behenyl dimethicone, a long chain fatty silicone, with bis-vinyldimethicone, a vinyl containing silicone resin. The behenyl part is often sourced from behenic acid found in rapeseed or peanut oil while the silicone backbone begins with quartz-derived silica. Through controlled addition polymerization the two materials are crosslinked into a three-dimensional network then milled into an ultra-fine powder that swells slightly in oils. Silicone elastomers like this began appearing in cosmetics in the late 1990s when formulators looked for lighter, silkier alternatives to heavy occlusive oils. Today the ingredient shows up in many leave-on products where a smooth, cushiony skin feel is desired. You will commonly find it in facial moisturizers, anti-aging creams, makeup primers, foundations, BB creams, sunscreens, sheet masks, hair smoothing serums and body lotions.
Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient mainly serves as an emollient, delivering several practical advantages.
As an emollient it glides across skin or hair to fill in microscopic gaps so surfaces feel softer and more supple. Its powdery elastomer structure lends a velvety, almost matte finish that helps cut greasy shine while still locking in lightweight moisture. The silky slip improves spreadability allowing creams and makeup to apply more evenly and it can also thicken and stabilize oil phases which helps keep products from separating over time.
Who Can Use Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer
This silky silicone powder is gentle enough for nearly every skin type. Its lightweight, non-greasy touch works well for dry, oily and combination skin because it softens without trapping heavy oil on the surface. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it thanks to its inert nature and the fact it stays on top of the skin rather than sinking deep where irritation can start. Acne-prone users usually find it non-clogging although very heavy or layered use of silicone-rich products could contribute to buildup that blocks pores in a small minority of people.
The raw materials are largely synthetic or plant derived. The behenyl portion is commonly sourced from rapeseed or peanut oil, not animal fat, and the silicone network is fabricated in the lab so the finished ingredient is normally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Anyone following a strict lifestyle should still check with the finished brand to confirm its supply chain.
Topical use is considered low risk during pregnancy and while breastfeeding because the polymer molecules are too large to penetrate meaningfully into the bloodstream. This is not medical advice, and pregnant or nursing individuals should always clear any skincare routine with their physician just to be safe.
The ingredient does not trigger photosensitivity and can even slightly diffuse light on the skin making it a good companion to daily sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet most people will never experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation – rare stinging or redness can occur in very reactive skin
- Temporary pore blockage – layering several silicone-rich products might trap debris leading to blackheads or breakouts in acne-prone users
- Allergic contact dermatitis – extremely uncommon but possible if a person is sensitized to silicones or trace impurities
- Product buildup on hair – repeated use in leave-on hair care can make strands feel coated or heavy until clarified
If any unwanted reaction develops stop use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low). Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer is a large, cross-linked silicone powder that stays on the surface of skin and does not interact much with natural oil. Its bulky structure and low use levels mean it rarely blocks pores.
Most acne-prone individuals can use products containing this ingredient without issues, though layering several silicone-rich products may still lead to buildup for a small number of users.
Pore concerns are more likely when the polymer is paired with heavy waxes or butters, as the silky particles can help seal those richer oils onto the skin.
Summary
Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer functions mainly as an emollient that smooths skin or hair, delivers a soft matte finish, improves spreadability, and helps stabilize oil phases so products feel elegant and stay homogenous.
It appears in many modern moisturizers, primers, foundations, sunscreens, and hair serums, although it has not reached the name recognition of basic dimethicone or trending botanical extracts.
The ingredient is widely viewed as safe; it is inert, non-penetrating, and rarely irritating. Even so, skin can be unpredictable, so it’s smart to patch test any new product that features it.