What Is Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone?
Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone is a specialty silicone made by bonding dimethicone, a silky silicone oil, with an octenylsuccinic anhydride group. This tweak gives the ingredient a unique ability to mix oil and water, something plain dimethicone cannot do well on its own. The raw materials start as silica, which is turned into dimethicone, then chemically linked with octenylsuccinic anhydride in a controlled reaction that keeps the final material smooth and stable. The compound was introduced in the late 1990s when formulators were looking for silicones that could both soften skin and help blend hard to mix ingredients. Today it shows up in an array of cosmetic products such as lightweight face creams, hydrating masks, foundation primers, color cosmetics, sunscreens, hair conditioners and anti aging serums where a soft touch and a uniform texture are essential.
Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for its ability to keep formulas smooth and uniform.
As an emulsifying agent, Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone helps water based and oil based ingredients stay evenly mixed so a cream, lotion or serum feels consistent from the first dab to the last drop. By holding the blend together it prevents separation, improves spreadability, enhances the product’s feel on skin and ensures active ingredients are delivered evenly for reliable performance.
Who Can Use Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone
This silicone-based emulsifier is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its silky feel does not clog pores easily and it tends to sit lightly on the surface, making it suitable even for sensitive or redness-prone skin. There are no known traits that make it unsuitable for any specific skin type, although extremely acneic skin may prefer to monitor any new silicone to be sure it does not trap existing oil beneath the surface.
Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone is a lab-created ingredient that contains no animal-derived materials so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current research has found no evidence that topical use is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Because individual situations vary, this information is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before introducing new skincare products, just to be safe.
The ingredient does not react with sunlight and does not raise the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, so there is no added risk of photosensitivity. It is also odorless and free of common allergens like nuts, gluten and soy, details that may matter for people with those specific concerns.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone can differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated in a cosmetic product.
- Mild clogged pores in very acne-prone skin
- Slight irritation or redness for those highly sensitive to silicones
- Rare contact dermatitis due to individual hypersensitivity
If you notice any persistent discomfort, redness or breakouts after applying a product containing this ingredient discontinue use and seek guidance from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone is a large, slippery silicone molecule that tends to sit on top of the skin rather than sinking into pores, so it is unlikely to spark new blackheads or pimples. It does form a light film, which in very oily or congested skin might trap existing oil and debris, but that risk remains low given the ingredient’s low usage levels in finished products. Overall it is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulas usually include this silicone at modest concentrations, and it is often paired with lightweight esters or humectants that further reduce any pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Bis-Octenylsuccinoyloxypropyl Dimethicone is a specialty silicone that acts mainly as an emulsifier, keeping water and oil mixed so creams, lotions and makeup stay smooth and even. Its slick texture also improves spreadability and gives products a soft, silky finish.
While not as universally famous as plain dimethicone, it shows up in many modern skincare and makeup formulas that need a reliable but light emulsifier. Brands favor it for its ability to stabilize challenging actives without weighing skin down.
Safety data and real-world use point to a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging for most people. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to run a quick patch test when trying a fresh product that contains it, just to rule out personal sensitivities.