What Is Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Peg-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone based ingredient created by linking PEG-10 dimethicone units with vinyl dimethicone units into a three-dimensional network. Because it is a copolymer, it combines the smooth feel of traditional silicones with the water-friendly nature of polyethylene glycol. Manufacturers first introduced this material in the early 2000s when brands began seeking lighter, more breathable silicone textures for skin care and makeup. The process starts with medical-grade silica refined into siloxane monomers. These monomers are reacted with ethylene oxide to add the PEG-10 side chains, then crosslinked with vinyl dimethicone under controlled heat and catalysts to form tiny, sponge-like particles. The final powder or dispersion is easy to mix into water-based or oil-based formulas.
You will spot Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating primers, BB and CC creams, long-wear foundations, sheet masks, smoothing hair serums and many anti-aging lotions where a silk-like finish without a heavy feel is desired.
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Peg-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multi-tasking silicone helps products look, feel and perform better in several ways:
- Emulsion stabilising – Keeps oil and water phases blended so creams stay uniform, resist separation and maintain shelf life
- Film forming – Leaves an invisible flexible layer on skin or hair that locks in moisture, boosts product wear time and adds a soft focus finish
- Skin conditioning – Provides a silky slip that smooths rough texture, reduces the look of fine lines and imparts a soft non-greasy afterfeel
- Viscosity controlling – Thickens watery formulas or thins heavy ones helping brands hit that perfect cushiony consistency consumers love
Who Can Use Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Peg-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by dry, normal, combination and oily skin because it is lightweight, non greasy and has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. Sensitive skin usually does fine with it too since silicones are inert and do not penetrate deeply. People with severe acne or those prone to fungal breakouts might prefer to limit heavy layering of silicone rich products if they notice congestion yet most users do not report problems.
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer is made from mineral derived silica and petrochemical feedstocks with no animal sourced components so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current cosmetic safety assessments rate this material as safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all personal care products with a qualified healthcare professional to be extra cautious.
The polymer does not absorb ultraviolet light or alter the skin’s response to the sun so it does not cause photosensitivity. It also has no known interactions with common skincare actives like retinoids, vitamin C or exfoliating acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues only; in properly formulated products most users experience none of these problems.
- Mild skin irritation or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Transient redness from mechanical rubbing if the product is overworked into the skin
- Rare contact allergy presenting as rash or hives
- Possible pore congestion if combined with heavy occlusive ingredients on acne prone skin
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a large, crosslinked silicone that stays on the skin’s surface and allows water vapor to pass through, so it is far less likely to block pores than heavier oils or waxes. Its porous, sponge-like structure also absorbs a bit of skin sebum rather than sealing everything underneath, which further lowers clogging risk.
Because of this low score most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can usually use products containing this polymer without problems.
One thing to keep in mind is that formulas often pair this ingredient with richer emollients for added slip. If your skin reacts to those companion ingredients, you might still see congestion even though the polymer itself is low risk.
Summary
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer acts as an emulsion stabiliser, film former, skin conditioner and viscosity controller. Its three-dimensional silicone network helps oil and water stay blended, forms a weightless breathable layer that locks in moisture, gives products a silky glide and fine tunes thickness for a cushy feel.
The ingredient enjoys steady but not superstar popularity. It shows up in many modern primers, fluid foundations and lightweight moisturisers where a smooth non-greasy finish is wanted, yet it is not as widely talked about as classic dimethicone.
Current safety data rate it as non-irritating, non-sensitising and pregnancy safe when used as directed. Still every skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this silicone before applying it all over.