What Is Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-based ingredient created by linking together two silicone molecules, hydrogen dimethicone and bis-vinyldimethicone, with the help of dodecene. The result is a lightweight, three-dimensional network that feels soft and silky when spread on the skin.
Silicones have been used in personal care since the 1950s for their smooth feel and water-resistant qualities. Crosslinked silicones like this one came later, as chemists looked for ways to give products a more luxurious texture without adding heavy oils. By the early 2000s, advances in polymer chemistry made it possible to produce this ingredient at scale, and it quickly found a place in high-end skincare and makeup.
Manufacturing starts with purified silicone oils. These oils react with precise amounts of dodecene in a controlled environment, forming long chains. A catalyst then links these chains together, turning the liquid into a soft, gel-like powder. After filtering and drying, the material is ready to be blended into cosmetic bases.
You will often see Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer in primers, moisturizers, sunscreens, BB creams, sheet masks, eye creams and anti-aging serums. It is prized for giving formulas a velvety finish and helping other ingredients spread evenly.
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a single but important purpose in skincare and makeup.
Skin conditioning: It forms a breathable layer that leaves skin feeling smooth and soft. The powder-gel texture fills in fine lines and uneven spots so products glide on effortlessly and look more polished. It can also help lock in moisture by reducing water loss from the surface of the skin, which supports a more hydrated, comfortable feel throughout the day.
Who Can Use Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
This silicone powder suits most skin types. Dry and mature skin appreciate the silky film that slows moisture loss while oily and combination skin enjoy its weightless feel that does not add grease. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it because the molecule is inert and non reactive. The one group that may want to watch closely is those who struggle with persistent, cystic acne since any film forming ingredient can theoretically trap oil and debris, though the risk is low.
The material is fully synthetic, produced from laboratory processed silicones and dodecene so it contains no animal derived substances. That makes it compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, provided the finished product is not blended with non vegan additives like beeswax or collagen.
Current cosmetic safety assessments consider the ingredient safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it remains on the surface of the skin and is not known to penetrate or enter the bloodstream. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run new skincare products past a physician to be sure they fit individual needs.
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer does not make skin more sensitive to the sun, does not interfere with sunscreen filters and is stable under normal daylight. It can be layered with most actives including retinoids and acids without diminishing their performance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to any topical ingredient vary by individual so the points below outline potential issues rather than what the average user will experience. When the polymer is used at appropriate levels and a product is well made most people notice only a smooth feel and no side effects.
- Mild clogged pores or breakouts in very acne-prone skin
- Transient redness or irritation if applied to compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or rash
- Heavy or occlusive sensation when layered too thickly, especially in hot humid climates
- Reduced absorption of certain water based actives if the polymer is applied first and forms a barrier
If you experience any persistent discomfort or visible reaction stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5 (low)
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer sits on top of the skin as a large, crosslinked silicone network that is too bulky to slip into pores. It creates a breathable film rather than a heavy seal and is chemically inert, so it rarely feeds the bacteria that drive breakouts. That said, any film former can mingle with excess sebum and dead cells if cleansing is inadequate, which is why the score is not a perfect zero.
Most people who are prone to acne can use products containing this ingredient without noticing extra congestion.
Because the polymer has a powdery finish and lacks oils or fatty acids, it generally plays well in water-based or lightweight formulas, keeping the overall clogging potential of a product low.
Summary
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is mainly a skin-conditioning agent that smooths texture, fills in fine lines and helps lock down surface moisture. Its three-dimensional silicone network glides over the skin, giving creams, serums and makeup a soft, velvety feel while keeping them from feeling greasy.
The ingredient shows up often in primers, tinted moisturizers, sunscreens and anti-aging treatments, especially in mid to high-end ranges where a luxe finish is important. It is not as ubiquitous as dimethicone but has carved out a steady niche among formulators who want lightweight blur effects.
Current safety data rates it as non-sensitizing, non-irritating and suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding since it stays on the surface of the skin. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this silicone to confirm personal compatibility.