What Is Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a man-made silicone ingredient created by linking dimethicone units with small hexyl and succinyl groups, then “cross-stitching” the whole structure with hexanediol. The process starts with hydrogen dimethicone, which reacts with allyl succinic anhydride and hexene to attach the extra side groups. A final step bonds the chains together, forming a flexible three-dimensional network that behaves like a soft micro-sponge on the skin. Because it is fully synthetic and built from mineral-derived silica and carbon-based feedstocks, it is free of animal material and impurities that can come from natural oils.
Silicones entered beauty products in the 1950s for their silky feel. Over time, chemists looked for ways to make them lighter, less greasy and longer lasting. Crosslinked versions like Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer appeared in the early 2000s and quickly found a home in color cosmetics and skin care that needed a smooth finish without a heavy film.
You will most often spot this ingredient in face primers, long-wear foundations, tinted moisturizers, mattifying sunscreens, anti-aging serums, overnight masks and any product that promises a blurred soft-focus effect.
Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifunctional silicone improves both the feel and the performance of many formulas
- Film forming: Leaves a thin breathable layer that locks in moisture, helps actives stay on the skin longer and gives makeup better wear time
- Skin conditioning: Glides on with a velvety touch, filling in fine lines and uneven texture so skin looks smoother and feels softer
- Viscosity controlling: Thickens thin formulations without making them sticky allowing creams, gels and fluids to keep a stable, elegant consistency
Who Can Use Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Most skin types can use this ingredient without trouble. Its lightweight breathable film works well for oily or combination skin since it helps control shine, yet the silky finish also benefits dry or mature skin that needs extra smoothness. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it because the molecule is inert and non reactive, though a small number of people who dislike silicones in general may prefer to avoid it.
Because the polymer is fully synthetic and contains no animal derived material it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data do not flag any issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run every skincare product past a qualified doctor to be sure it fits their personal needs.
The ingredient does not absorb UV light so it does not make skin more sensitive to the sun. It also plays nicely with common actives like retinol, vitamin C or acids and will not block them from working.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The points below list potential effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Transient mild redness or warmth
- Light itching in very sensitive individuals
- Rare clogged pores for those who are already prone to congestion
- Contact dermatitis in the event of a true silicone allergy, which is uncommon
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
The crosslinked silicone network has a very large molecular size that stays on the surface and forms a lightweight porous film rather than a greasy seal. It lets water vapor pass through so it is less likely to trap oil and debris inside pores. Laboratory data and consumer feedback show a low incidence of clogged pores, giving it a near non-comedogenic score of 1. Most acne-prone users can safely use it, but results always depend on the full formula and individual skin.
Keep in mind that if the finished product also contains heavy oils, waxes or butters the overall pore-clogging risk will reflect those richer ingredients, not the silicone itself.
Summary
Hexyl/Succinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer works as a film former, skin conditioner and viscosity controller. Its crosslinked structure spreads into a soft micro-mesh that smooths texture, locks in moisture, improves wear time and thickens formulas without heaviness. Although not as famous as plain dimethicone, it has carved out a steady fan base in primers, long-wear foundations and modern gel creams that aim for a blurred finish.
Current research labels the polymer as low risk with minimal irritation or sensitization potential. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so performing a small patch test whenever you try a new product containing this ingredient is a smart precaution.