What Is Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer?
Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer is a synthetic silicone-glycerin network created by crosslinking lauryl dimethicone, a silky silicone fluid, with diallyl polyglycerin-3, a water-loving multi-unit form of glycerin. The result is a lightweight sponge-like polymer that marries the smooth feel of silicones with the humectant properties of glycerin. Silicone crosspolymers first gained traction in cosmetic labs during the 1990s for their velvety textures and oil-absorbing abilities. Chemists later integrated polyglycerin to improve compatibility with water-based formulas, leading to the version seen on today’s ingredient lists.
Manufacturing starts with lauryl dimethicone that carries reactive vinyl groups. This silicone is blended with diallyl polyglycerin-3 and passed over a platinum catalyst, triggering a hydrosilylation reaction that links the two materials into a three-dimensional lattice. The finished gel is washed to remove residues then milled into a fine dispersion or soft beads, ready to drop into personal care batches.
You will spot Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer in a range of rinse-off and leave-on products such as gentle face washes, micellar cleansers, hydrating shampoos, smoothing conditioners, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, makeup primers, sun care formulas and overnight hair treatments where it boosts texture and sensory appeal.
Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this polymer for multiple roles that improve how a product performs and feels on skin or hair.
- Cleansing: Helps trap excess oil and dirt so they rinse away easily which allows for a gentler cleanse without stripping
- Hair conditioning: Deposits a thin, flexible film along the hair shaft that smooths cuticles, reduces frizz and adds a soft touch without weight
- Skin conditioning: Creates a breathable layer that leaves skin feeling silky and moisturized while helping retain water thanks to the polyglycerin portion
- Viscosity controlling: Thickens watery formulas and stabilizes emulsions giving creams, gels or shampoos a pleasing, non-drippy consistency
Who Can Use Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it sits on the surface rather than penetrating deeply and contains no known irritants or common allergens. Very acne prone users who react badly to any kind of silicone may prefer to patch test first, but the polyglycerin component tends to offset the occlusive feel that can bother some breakout-prone complexions.
Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer is synthesized in a lab from mineral-derived silicone and plant-based glycerin, so it does not contain animal material. That makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished formula has been certified cruelty free by the brand.
The ingredient has no documented hormonal activity and is not absorbed into the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. Current safety data indicate it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm suitability with their healthcare provider.
It does not increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, so there is no added risk of photosensitivity. No special storage conditions or usage restrictions are noted beyond normal cosmetic guidelines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The issues listed below are potential outcomes only and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild transient redness or itching in individuals with silicone sensitivity
- Rare clogged pores in users extremely prone to comedogenic build-up
- Contact dermatitis if combined with other irritants in the same formula
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally enters the eye before rinsing
If any irritation or other negative reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 — Laboratory data and practical use show that Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer sits lightly on the surface, forms a breathable film and has a large molecular size that prevents it from lodging inside pores. The silicone network provides slip without heavy occlusion while the polyglycerin portion attracts water rather than oil. For most users this translates to a very low chance of pore blockage.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
One point to note: overall formula design matters. If the polymer is paired with heavy oils or waxes, the finished product could feel richer and may raise the comedogenic potential of the formula as a whole.
Summary
Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer acts as a multitasker that cleanses by trapping oil and dirt, conditions skin and hair with a smooth breathable film, and controls viscosity to give products a pleasing texture. It achieves this thanks to its unique silicone-glycerin lattice that is both lightweight and water friendly.
The polymer has a modest but growing fan base among formulators who want the velvety touch of silicones without the greasy feel often associated with them. You will most often find it in gentle cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, primers and modern hair treatments rather than in older classic formulas.
Current research and widespread usage indicate it is safe for everyday topical use with a very low risk of irritation or systemic absorption. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product containing it before full use just to be on the safe side.