Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer

What is Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer?

Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer is a synthetic, cross-linked hybrid polymer blending hydrophobic lauryl-modified dimethicone chains with hydrophilic polyglycerin-3 segments. Developed in labs for cosmetics, it creates a three-dimensional gel matrix in water-in-silicone formulations. This structure thickens products, stabilizes emulsions by trapping oil and water phases, and delivers a lightweight, non-greasy sensory feel. Commonly found in moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and hair care items, it enhances spreadability, reduces tackiness, and supports even application without residue.

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:

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.
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.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.

Benefits

Enhances product texture for silky, easy-to-apply feel.

Stabilizes formulas to prevent separation and improve shelf life.

Conditions skin and hair for added softness and smoothness.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People seeking lightweight hydration in oil-free products.
Users with rare silicone sensitivities.
Those preferring smooth, non-sticky moisturizers.
Those avoiding silicone-based thickeners.
Individuals wanting stable, long-lasting emulsions.
People preferring fully natural formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety databases.
  • Typically non-comedogenic and gentle on skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lauryl Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes, it's considered low hazard and suitable for regular application in cosmetics.

Does it cause breakouts?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of zero.

What skin types suit it?

Works well for all types, especially those needing smooth textures.