What Is Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer?
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer is a specialty silicone created by joining dimethicone, a smooth silicone oil, with two water-loving polymers called PEG-10 and PEG-15. The result is a branched or “crosslinked” network that combines the silky glide of silicones with a light, flexible feel that plays well with water-based formulas.
Silicones became popular in skin care in the 1950s for their ability to spread easily and form breathable films. Chemists later looked for ways to make them mix better with water, which led to grafting polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains onto the silicone backbone. The PEG-10/15 blend used here gives a balanced texture that is neither greasy nor sticky, making it a favorite in modern lightweight creams and gels.
To manufacture this ingredient, dimethicone is first functionalized with reactive groups. It is then reacted with PEG-10 and PEG-15 diallyl ethers under controlled heat and catalysts so the chains link together into a stable three-dimensional mesh. After purification, the finished polymer is supplied as a soft wax or fluid that disperses easily into cosmetic bases.
You will most often spot Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer in primers, moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sunscreens, sheet masks, hair smoothing creams and color cosmetics like foundations or BB creams. Formulators pick it when they want a velvety finish that blurs fine lines and locks in moisture without a heavy feel.
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient brings a one-two punch of texture enhancement and optical improvement to many personal care products
- Film Forming: Creates an invisible, flexible layer on the skin or hair that helps seal in hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss and improve product wear time so makeup or sunscreen stays put longer
- Opacifying: Adds a soft focus effect that scatters light, making pores wrinkles and uneven tone look less noticeable while giving creams a richer, more luxurious appearance
Who Can Use Dimethicone/Peg-10/15 Crosspolymer
Because it is lightweight non greasy and non occlusive, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer tends to agree with all skin types including dry, oily and combination skin. Its breathable film helps trap moisture without clogging pores so even blemish-prone users usually tolerate it well. Those with very sensitive or allergy-prone skin should still review full ingredient lists since irritation more often stems from other additives rather than the crosspolymer itself.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal derived raw materials. That makes it appropriate for vegetarians and vegans as long as the finished product is also certified cruelty free.
No data suggests that Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer poses specific risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It sits on the skin’s surface with minimal absorption. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new skincare just to be safe.
The polymer does not increase photosensitivity and can be worn day or night with or without sunscreen. It is odorless non staining and compatible with other common cosmetic actives so there are no special usage precautions beyond normal product directions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer differ from person to person. The points below outline potential, though uncommon, side effects when the ingredient is used as intended in a finished cosmetic formula.
- Mild transient redness or warmth on very sensitive skin
- Rare stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Build-up or product feel that some users may interpret as “heaviness” if layered with multiple silicone products
- Pore clogging in individuals extremely prone to comedones when combined with other occlusive ingredients
If any irritation or discomfort occurs discontinue use and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer is a large, inert molecule that rests on the skin’s surface rather than sinking into pores. It forms a breathable film that lets water vapor pass while blocking little else, so it rarely contributes to clogged pores. A few very oil-rich formulas that pair it with heavier waxes could tip the balance for highly congestion-prone skin, but on its own the ingredient is considered low risk.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone users in most cases.
Because the polymer itself is non-greasy and easy to wash off, it is often chosen for lightweight primers and gels aimed at oily or blemish-prone complexions.
Summary
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer is valued for two main jobs: creating a flexible film that locks in moisture and scattering light to blur skin texture. Its silicone backbone lays down a silky layer while the PEG branches keep that layer light and compatible with water-based formulas, giving products a smooth glide and a soft focus finish that lasts.
The ingredient sits in the sweet spot between classic dimethicone and more advanced silicone gels, so it shows up in everything from drugstore primers to prestige serums. It is not as ubiquitous as plain dimethicone but formulators reach for it when they want a featherweight, line-blurring effect without adding greasiness.
Safety data rates it as low irritation and low comedogenicity with minimal skin absorption. Most people can use it daily without issue, but it is always wise to patch test any new product to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.