What Is Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone?
Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone is a modern silicone-based ingredient created by bonding glycerin-derived groups and lauryl (coconut-origin) chains onto a dimethicone backbone. The result is a hybrid molecule that behaves like a bridge between oil-loving and water-loving phases, letting it mingle smoothly with both. While classic dimethicone has been used since the 1950s for slip and gloss, chemists began adding natural-sourced side groups in the late 1990s to make silicones feel lighter and blend more easily with plant oils. This particular version emerged from that wave of innovation and quickly found its place in premium skincare and haircare formulas.
The manufacturing process starts with food-grade glycerin that is reacted with lauryl chloride to form glyceryl laurate. These units are then grafted onto a controlled-weight dimethicone chain through a catalyst-guided condensation step. The finished material is purified, yielding a clear, slightly viscous fluid that disperses readily in both water-in-oil and oil-in-water systems.
You will spot Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating face masks, leave-in hair conditioners, silky sunscreens, cleansing balms and anti-aging serums where a fresh, non-greasy skin feel is prized.
Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient brings two key technical roles to cosmetic formulas
- Emulsion stabilising – Its dual-natured structure settles at the boundary between oil and water phases, preventing them from separating. This keeps creams, lotions and serums uniform over time, improving shelf life and ensuring each use delivers the same texture and performance
- Cleansing – The lauryl chains can latch onto sebum and impurities while the silicone part helps them rinse away, giving cleansers and makeup removers a gentle yet effective boost without stripping the skin
Who Can Use Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone
This silicone ester is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry and sensitive skin benefit from the softening slip it gives while oily and combination skin appreciate that it feels weightless rather than greasy. Only those who are extremely prone to congestion from any silicone-based film may prefer to use it sparingly.
The molecule is made from synthetic dimethicone and plant-derived glycerin and lauryl chains, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product does not add animal sourced additives.
Current safety data show no link between Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone and hormonal activity, so it is considered acceptable for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new products.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and it can even help keep UV filters evenly spread in sunscreens. It also has no known interaction issues with common actives like vitamin C or niacinamide.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished formula.
- Mild skin irritation in individuals with a silicone sensitivity
- Transient flushing or warmth if applied to already compromised or inflamed skin
- Temporary clogged pores in people who are highly acne prone and use heavy multi-layer routines
- Stinging or watering of the eyes if the product accidentally gets into the eye area
- Buildup on hair shafts that can weigh fine hair down if the ingredient is used daily without periodic clarifying shampoos
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone earns a low score because its silicone backbone creates a lightweight film that sits on top of the skin rather than soaking in. The molecule is large and structurally branched so it is unlikely to wedge into pores. While the lauryl side chains have a mild affinity for oil, they are balanced by the water-friendly glycerin parts which help the ingredient rinse away. For most people prone to acne or breakouts this means it is generally acceptable, though very congestion-prone users may still want to watch how their skin reacts.
Formulators often pair this silicone with non-pore-clogging oils which helps keep the overall formula friendly to blemish-prone skin. As always, the finished product and the rest of the routine matter more than this single ingredient.
Summary
Bis-(Glyceryl/Lauryl) Glyceryl Lauryl Dimethicone is an emulsion stabiliser and gentle cleanser booster. It positions itself between water and oil to keep creams smooth and uniform, and its lauryl tails latch onto dirt and sebum so cleansers rinse away grime without tightness. These dual talents come from its hybrid structure: a dimethicone spine for glide, glycerin groups for water affinity and lauryl chains for oil compatibility.
It is not as famous as classic dimethicone yet it is becoming a quiet favourite in lightweight moisturisers, modern sunscreens and leave-in hair treatments where a fresh feel is prized.
Current data show it is safe for daily use with a very low irritation risk and no hormonal concerns. Like with any new skincare ingredient performing a simple patch test when trying a product that contains it is a smart habit.