What Is Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer?
Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer is a silicone based ingredient made by joining two forms of dimethicone. One part carries vinyl groups while the other is the smoother, familiar dimethicone found in many hair and skin products. Chemists link these two chains into a larger network, creating a flexible film forming material that stays lightweight.
Silicones started showing up in beauty products in the 1950s when their silky slip and water resistance became clear. Over time, formulators looked for ways to give silicone oils more staying power on skin and hair without a greasy feel. Copolymers like Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer solved that need by offering a quick setting, breathable layer that resists wash off.
To make it, manufacturers first create dimethicone fluids of different chain lengths. They then introduce a vinyl capped version and use a controlled reaction to link the ends, forming a three dimensional structure. The final material is usually delivered as a fine powder or dispersed in a light carrier oil, ready to be added during the cooling phase of a formula.
You can spot this copolymer in a mix of products: lightweight face and body lotions, long wear foundations, sunscreen emulsions, blurring primers, sheet masks, anti aging serums and hair smoothing sprays. Any formula that needs a soft touch finish yet long lasting protection may include it.
Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile silicone brings several perks to a formulation
- Emulsion stabilising: Helps oil and water stay mixed so lotions do not split during storage or when applied
- Film forming: Lays down a thin flexible layer that locks in moisture, boosts wear time for makeup and adds a smooth feel
- Skin conditioning: Leaves skin feeling silky, reduces roughness and gives an instant soft focus effect that can blur fine lines
- Viscosity controlling: Adjusts thickness so products glide easily yet stay where you put them, improving spreadability without heaviness
Who Can Use Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer
This silicone copolymer is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its weightless film helps dry skin hold moisture, while its non-greasy slip suits oilier complexions that dislike heavy creams. Sensitive skin usually does well because the ingredient is inert and rarely triggers redness or stinging. The only group that may want to proceed carefully is those with very acne-prone or easily congested skin; although its comedogenic rating is low, any film former can trap existing sebum and debris if cleansing habits are not solid.
Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer is synthetic and derived from silica, not animals, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data shows no reproductive or developmental concerns, so products containing this copolymer are considered safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should still have their healthcare provider review their skincare routine to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with UV filters. It is also fragrance free, gluten free and dye free, making it a low-risk option for people avoiding common topical allergens.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer vary between individuals. The points below cover potential reactions, though most users experience none when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild clogged pores in those already prone to congestion if makeup or sunscreen is not fully removed at night
- Rare contact dermatitis presenting as redness, itching or a rash in individuals sensitive to silicones
- Product buildup on hair shaft leading to dullness if used in leave-in hair products without occasional clarifying washes
- Occlusive feel that some users may find heavy in very hot humid weather despite the ingredient’s lightweight design
If any irritation, breakout or discomfort occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer earns a low score because its large silicone molecules sit on the surface instead of seeping into pores and feeding acne-causing bacteria. It creates a breathable film that helps water escape while keeping outside debris from settling, reducing chances of blockage. Formulas that pair it with heavy oils or waxes can still trigger congestion so the finished product matters more than the ingredient alone.
With a rating of 1 most people prone to breakouts can use it without issue, provided the overall formula is light and thoroughly removed at the end of the day.
Those following fungal acne routines will be happy to know that silicones like this copolymer are not a food source for Malassezia yeasts so they rarely aggravate that specific concern.
Summary
Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer is a multitasking silicone that stabilises emulsions keeps textures silky controls thickness and lays down a flexible water-resistant film. By crosslinking vinyl groups with classic dimethicone chains it forms a mesh that glides over skin or hair smoothing rough spots and locking in moisture without a greasy feel.
You will spot it most often in long wear foundations primers sunscreens and lightweight lotions. It is not the biggest star in mainstream marketing but formulators value it for its dependable performance so it shows up in many mid to high end products even if consumers do not notice it on the label.
Current research and decades of in-market use point to a strong safety profile with very low irritation or toxicity risk. As with any new product give your skin a chance to adjust by patch testing before full use just to be safe.