What Is Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone?
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone is a silicone-based compound that also carries a chain of plant-derived glycerin units. The silicone part gives it a silky feel and water-resistant nature while the polyglyceryl side helps it play nicely with water. This dual personality lets the ingredient spread smoothly yet rinse away without a heavy residue.
Silicones have been used in beauty products since the 1950s for their glide and protective qualities. Over time formulators looked for versions that were lighter and more eco-minded. By attaching renewable glycerin units to the silicone backbone chemists created Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone which hit the market in the past decade as a more modern silicone alternative.
Manufacturing starts with food-grade glycerin that is polymerized into polyglycerin. This chain is then bonded to a phenylpropyl group for improved shine and finally linked to a dimethicone segment. The finished ingredient is a liquid or soft paste that blends easily into both water-based and oil-based formulas.
You will most often find this ingredient in leave-in hair creams, rinse-off conditioners, anti-frizz serums, facial moisturizers, lightweight sunscreens, sheet masks and makeup primers. Its balanced feel makes it popular in products that aim to provide softness without a greasy after-feel.
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In beauty formulas Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone serves two main roles that translate into noticeable user benefits.
- Hair Conditioning: It forms a thin breathable film on strands that smooths the cuticle, boosts shine and helps detangle. Because it is partly water-compatible it rinses out more easily than traditional heavy silicones which can reduce buildup over time.
- Skin Conditioning: On the skin it delivers a soft silky finish that locks in moisture, fills in fine surface lines for a smoother look and reduces the white cast from mineral sunscreens. Its lightweight texture suits daily wear even in humid weather.
Who Can Use Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone
This ingredient is considered friendly for most skin types including dry, normal, combination or oily skin because it leaves a breathable film that does not clog pores easily. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its low reactivity, though anyone with a known silicone sensitivity should proceed with caution.
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone is suitable for vegans and vegetarians since its glycerin units are plant derived and the silicone portion comes from silica sourced from sand, not animals. Always check the full formula for other non-vegan additives.
No studies have flagged this ingredient as a risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding because it sits on the surface of skin and hair with minimal absorption. This is not medical advice and people who are pregnant or nursing should review any product with their doctor first to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it will not increase the risk of sunburn or pigmentation issues. It also plays well with most other skincare actives which makes it easy to slot into existing routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or itching in individuals who are extremely sensitive to silicones
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as persistent rash or swelling
- Temporary heaviness or limp feel in hair if multiple silicone products are layered without proper cleansing
- Eye irritation or watering if a product migrates into the eyes before it sets
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone carries a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. Its large silicone-glycerin structure sits mostly on the surface and is less occlusive than heavier dimethicone grades, so it is unlikely to wedge into pores and trigger blockages. Formulas that rinse clean further lower the risk of buildup.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. As with any film-forming agent, pairing it with inadequate cleansing or layering several silicone products could inch the risk upward, but under normal use it remains a safe bet.
Summary
Bis-(Polyglyceryl-7 Oxyphenylpropyl) Dimethicone conditions hair and skin by forming a thin breathable veil that smooths cuticles, boosts gloss, locks in moisture and softens texture without a greasy afterfeel. The plant-derived polyglyceryl side helps it disperse in water while the silicone backbone adds slip and water resistance, giving formulators the best of both worlds.
It is still a niche ingredient compared with classic dimethicone yet its lightweight touch and eco-leaning profile are gaining attention in modern hair creams, sunscreens and primers.
Current safety data shows very low irritation, allergy and comedogenic potential so most users can enjoy its benefits with confidence. As with any new cosmetic it is smart to patch test a product that features this ingredient before applying it more broadly, just to be on the safe side.