Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer

What is Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer?

Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer is a synthetic hybrid silicone material formed by chemically linking dimethicone, a soft emollient polymer, with vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate, a hard film-forming resin. This crosspolymer exhibits rubbery, elastomeric qualities, distinguishing it from linear silicones. Commonly used in makeup products such as foundations, eyeliners, and lipsticks, as well as some skincare items, it primarily serves to create a sheer, durable film upon application. This layer adheres tightly to skin or hair, offering improved resistance to moisture, rubbing, and daily wear while remaining flexible and breathable. As a viscosity controller, it modifies flow properties, enabling stable, easy-to-apply textures that suspend other ingredients evenly without heaviness. Its mattifying effect helps diffuse light for a soft-focus appearance.

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:

Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Provides a continuous, flexible film that extends makeup longevity and resists water or transfer.

Enhances formulation thickness for smoother spreading, better stability, and luxurious feel.

Delivers lightweight coverage with a non-greasy, breathable finish suitable for daily use.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Makeup enthusiasts needing all-day wear without touch-ups.
People with rare silicone sensitivities or allergies.
Individuals seeking stable, user-friendly product textures.
Those preferring entirely natural or silicone-free formulations.
Users desiring a matte, shine-diffusing effect in cosmetics.
Individuals experiencing issues with film-forming agents in past products.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety reviews.
  • Non-comedogenic profile supports use across skin types without pore-clogging concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dimethicone/Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer

What does this ingredient do in products?

It builds a flexible film for better adherence and adjusts thickness for optimal texture and spread.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

It shows low irritation potential in safety evaluations, fitting most skin types.

Does it contribute to acne?

With a comedogenic rating of zero, it poses little risk of pore blockage.