What Is Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer?
Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-based ingredient created by linking together three different silicone materials: dimethicone, lauryl dimethicone and bis-vinyldimethicone. When these chains are chemically “crosslinked” they form a soft three-dimensional network that feels silky and flexible on the skin.
Silicones have been used in beauty products since the 1950s for their smooth feel and water-resistant nature. This particular crosspolymer was developed later as chemists looked for ways to boost that classic silicone slip while also giving formulas more thickness and staying power. Today the material is manufactured by blending the three liquid silicones, adding a catalyst then heating the mix so the chains bond together into a lightly gelled powder or paste. After filtering and drying, the finished ingredient is ready to be added to cosmetic bases.
You will find Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer in a wide range of products such as primers, liquid and powder foundations, tinted moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-aging serums, sheet masks, leave-on hair smoothers and even long-wearing lip colors. Formulators like it because it adds a cushiony feel, helps pigments spread evenly and keeps water and oil from separating.
Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place in formulas by offering several practical benefits:
- Emulsion stabilising – Keeps water and oil phases blended so lotions and creams stay smooth from the lab to your bathroom shelf, which improves product consistency and shelf life
- Skin conditioning – Forms a breathable film that leaves skin feeling silky, helps lock in moisture and reduces the appearance of fine lines for a soft focus finish
- Viscosity controlling – Adds body and thickness to otherwise runny formulas, allowing brands to create rich creams, bouncy gels or lightweight mousses without heavy waxes or butters
Who Can Use Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer
This silicone blend suits most skin types including oily, dry, normal and sensitive because it forms a light breathable film that rarely blocks pores or pulls moisture from the skin. Extremely acne-prone users who react to any film-forming ingredients may want to monitor how their skin responds, but the ingredient itself is considered low risk for clogging.
It is a fully synthetic material so it contains no animal by-products, making it acceptable for both vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturing practices vary by brand, so those avoiding animal testing should still check company policies.
The polymer is regarded as non toxic and non systemic, so it is generally viewed as safe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should ask a physician before starting new skincare just to be safe.
Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer does not increase photosensitivity and has no known interactions with sunlight or typical skincare actives. It is also odorless and free of common irritants like fragrance or dyes.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer differ from person to person. The issues below are possible yet not expected for the average user when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished formula.
- Mild temporary redness or irritation – very uncommon and usually linked to overall product formulation rather than the polymer itself
- Breakouts in acne-prone skin – the silky film can trap existing oil and debris if skin is not cleansed thoroughly which may lead to surface bumps
- Allergic contact dermatitis – true silicone allergies are rare but can cause itching or rash in sensitive individuals
- Build-up or residue on skin or hair – heavy or repeated layers without proper cleansing might leave a slick feel that some users find unpleasant
If you experience any negative reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer sits near the bottom of the comedogenic scale because its molecules are too large to penetrate deep into pores and the film it forms is breathable rather than occlusive. Formulas that use this polymer also tend to be lightweight and silicone based, which further limits the risk of congestion.
In practical terms this rating means most people prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing the ingredient without seeing an uptick in clogged pores, provided the rest of the formula is also low comedogenic. Heavy makeup, insufficient cleansing or pairing it with highly comedogenic oils may still cause issues, so overall product design and routine habits matter.
Summary
Dimethicone/Lauryl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer is a multitasking silicone that stabilises emulsions, conditions skin and controls viscosity. It does this by forming a soft three dimensional network that keeps water and oil mixed, lays down a smooth moisture-locking film and thickens runny bases without waxes or heavy butters.
The polymer is fairly popular in modern primers, long wear foundations and sunscreens because it delivers a luxurious slip and soft focus finish while helping formulas stay intact through heat, sweat and daily wear. It is less common in budget or natural lines that avoid silicones altogether.
Safety reviews find the ingredient non irritating, non sensitising and virtually non toxic when used topically. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product containing this crosspolymer and monitor your skin for at least 24 hours before full application.