What Is Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/Peg-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer?
Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/PEG-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer is a man-made silicone created in the lab. Chemists start with a dimethyl siloxane backbone that is tipped with glycidoxypropyl groups, blend it with PEG-13 diglycidyl ether, then link the chains together using aminopropyltriisopropoxysilane. The result is a three-dimensional silicone network that stays flexible yet forms a thin, even film on hair and skin.
Synthetic silicones first gained cosmetic fame in the 1950s for their silky feel and water resistance. Over time formulators looked for versions that were lighter and easier to wash out, which led to the development of crosslinked hybrids like this one in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The crosspolymer design lets brands offer the sleekness of classic silicones without the heavy buildup people often worry about.
Production happens in closed stainless-steel reactors where the starting materials are mixed at controlled temperatures. Once the reaction is complete the polymer is filtered, tested for purity, and delivered as a viscous fluid or dispersed in a carrier such as cyclopentasiloxane.
You will typically find Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/PEG-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer in rinse-out and leave-in conditioners, hair masks, smoothing serums, heat protectant sprays, styling creams, color-protection treatments and shine drops. It is less common in facial care but may appear in lightweight primers or BB creams that aim for a velvety finish.
Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/Peg-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient mainly serves one purpose: hair conditioning. The crosslinked silicone forms an ultra-thin coating around each strand that fills in rough spots, smooths the cuticle, lowers friction and makes hair feel softer and easier to detangle. Because the polymer is water-insoluble yet light it helps tame frizz, boosts shine and offers a bit of heat protection without weighing the style down or leaving a greasy after-feel.
Who Can Use Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/Peg-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer
This crosslinked silicone is considered suitable for nearly all hair and skin types. Its lightweight film does not block pores or trap heat, so people with oily or acne-prone skin generally tolerate it as well as those with dry, mature or sensitive skin. It is also gentle enough for color-treated and chemically processed hair, adding slip without stripping dye or relaxing treatments. Individuals with ultra-fine hair may want to use it sparingly, as even light silicones can sometimes reduce volume.
The molecule is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components, which makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturing processes can vary by brand, so anyone concerned about animal testing policies should still check the company’s stance.
Current safety data show no systemic absorption, so products containing this ingredient are generally viewed as low risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice; if you are expecting or nursing, run any cosmetic product past your healthcare provider to be safe.
Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/PEG-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special need for extra sun protection beyond the normal daily use of sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/PEG-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects; most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- Contact allergy presenting as redness or itch (rare)
- Buildup on hair leading to limpness or dullness if not cleansed periodically
- Eye irritation or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Respiratory discomfort if inhaled from aerosol sprays
If you notice any unexpected irritation or discomfort while using this ingredient, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/PEG-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer sits on the surface of skin and hair as a large, inert silicone network that does not penetrate pores or interact with sebum. Its slick, breathable film is unlikely to clog follicles, so breakouts are rare. That said, any silicone layer can trap existing oil or dirt if cleansing is inadequate, which could indirectly aggravate blemish-prone areas.
Overall this ingredient is considered suitable for people prone to acne or congestion, especially when used in rinse-off products or paired with a good cleansing routine.
Summary
Bis-Glycidoxy Dimethicone/PEG-13 Diglycidyl Ether Crosspolymer is a lightweight crosslinked silicone that conditions hair by wrapping each strand in a smooth, flexible film. This film fills microscopic gaps, cuts friction, tames frizz, boosts shine and offers mild heat protection while rinsing out more easily than heavier silicones.
The polymer appears most often in mid to high tier conditioners, masks and serums rather than everyday facial care, so its name is not yet as recognizable as dimethicone or cyclopentasiloxane. Formulators who want a sleek feel without heavy buildup are slowly adopting it, which may increase its visibility over the next few years.
Current research shows it is non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic and largely inert, making it safe for most users including those with sensitive or color-treated hair. As with any new cosmetic, it is wise to patch test a product that contains this ingredient to be sure it agrees with your individual skin or scalp.