What Is Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer?
Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer is a specialty silicone that chemists create by linking together three modified silicones: Perfluorononyl Dimethicone, Methicone and Amodimethicone. The result is a three-dimensional network that looks and feels like a soft powder but acts like a flexible film when it is spread on skin or hair. The “perfluorononyl” part brings a touch of fluorine, which helps the polymer resist water and oil, while the dimethicone and methicone parts provide the smooth glide silicones are known for. Amodimethicone adds gentle conditioning properties.
Synthetic silicones started showing up in beauty formulas in the 1950s for their silky feel and have been tweaked ever since. This crosspolymer came along in the early 2000s when brands wanted longer-lasting makeup and skincare that still felt lightweight. By crosslinking the three silicones, suppliers were able to deliver a material that locks pigments and actives in place without a greasy after-feel.
Manufacturing begins with standard cosmetic-grade dimethicone. Chemists attach perfluorononyl chains to some of the molecules then mix them with methicone and amodimethicone. A catalyst triggers crosslinking, turning the liquid mix into a soft porous powder. After filtering and drying, the powder is milled to a fine particle size so it disperses evenly in creams, lotions or pressed powders.
You will usually spot this ingredient in long-wear foundations, primers, waterproof mascaras, transfer-resistant lipsticks, setting sprays, high-SPF sunscreens, anti-aging serums and sheet mask essences. In haircare it appears in smoothing serums and humidity-proof styling sprays.
Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This crosspolymer mainly acts as a binding agent. It holds pigments, UV filters and other particles together so the formula stays uniform during storage and applies evenly on skin or hair. By forming a flexible film it also helps makeup last longer, prevents color from migrating into fine lines, keeps sunscreen particles from separating and improves water resistance in both makeup and hair products.
Who Can Use Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer
This ingredient is considered suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin, because it forms a breathable film that does not typically clog pores or trap heat. Extremely acne-prone individuals who react poorly to any silicone film formers may prefer to avoid it or use it sparingly, but most users tolerate it well. Hair of every texture can also benefit from its lightweight smoothing effect.
Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components, so it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Always check the rest of the formula to be sure all other ingredients meet personal standards.
The polymer is not known to penetrate skin or enter the bloodstream, so it is generally viewed as low risk for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear every skincare or cosmetic product with a qualified healthcare professional before use just to be safe.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. There are also no known conflicts with common actives such as retinol or vitamin C, so it can be layered without special precautions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer differ from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, but they are uncommon and most people experience none of them when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation or redness in sensitive individuals
- Temporary clogged pores or breakouts in users highly prone to comedogenic responses
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching rash or swelling
- Eye stinging or watering if the product migrates into the eyes
- Scalp or hair buildup that can leave strands feeling heavy between washes
If you notice any of these effects discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low)
The polymer’s large, crosslinked particles remain on the surface as a light film instead of seeping into pores, and its oil-repelling fluorinated chains reduce the chance of mixing with sebum. Because a handful of users report minor congestion when using heavy, silicone-rich formulas, the rating is not a perfect zero.
Most acne-prone individuals can use products containing this ingredient without seeing an uptick in breakouts.
Keep in mind overall comedogenicity depends on the entire formula and how thoroughly the product is removed, not on this single component alone.
Summary
Perfluorononyl Dimethicone/Methicone/Amodimethicone Crosspolymer binds pigments, UV filters and other particles while laying down a thin flexible film that boosts wear time, resists water and adds silky glide. The fluorinated side chains enhance oil resistance while the amodimethicone portion lends gentle conditioning.
It is still a specialty additive rather than a mainstream staple, showing up mainly in long wear makeup, waterproof mascara and high SPF sunscreens when brands want performance beyond standard dimethicone.
Safety reviews and user experience label it as low risk for irritation or pore clogging, yet it is always wise to patch test any new product that features this or any unfamiliar ingredient.