Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3

What is Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3?

Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3 is a synthetic, silicone-based surfactant created by modifying dimethicone with polyglyceryl-3 chains and butyl groups. This chemical structure combines silicone's smooth, hydrophobic properties with polyglycerols' water-loving nature, making it ideal for emulsifying incompatible phases in cosmetics. Primarily used in hair care like shampoos and conditioners, and skin products such as lotions and cleansers, it excels in water-in-silicone emulsions. By lowering surface tension at oil-water interfaces, it forms stable micelles that lift dirt and oils during cleansing, while also thickening formulas and depositing a conditioning film on skin or hair for enhanced slip and manageability. Its versatility supports clear, non-greasy textures in rinse-off and leave-on items.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Enhances product stability by emulsifying oils and water for even texture.

Provides conditioning to skin and hair, improving softness and smoothness.

Supports gentle cleansing by aiding impurity removal without stripping.

Viscosity control ensures ideal thickness for easy application.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking smoother, more manageable hair from conditioning products.
Those with rare silicone sensitivities.
Users preferring lightweight, stable moisturizers and cleansers.
People avoiding synthetic surfactants entirely.
People wanting silicone-enhanced slip in emulsions without heaviness.
Individuals preferring silicone-free formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3

Is Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3 comedogenic?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for acne-prone skin.

What products contain it?

Common in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and cleansers for emulsifying and conditioning.

Is it irritating?

Evidence indicates low irritation potential in cosmetic use.