Phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate

What is Phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate?

Phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate is a lab-synthesized organosilicon compound, a type of siloxysilicate resin featuring phenylpropyl chains attached to a siloxane backbone with dimethylsilyl cross-links. Primarily used in makeup foundations, lip products, sunscreens, and hair fixatives, it functions through solvent evaporation, forming a thin, elastic, transparent film on skin or hair. This film adheres tightly, resisting rub-off, sweat, and water while adding subtle luster from its refractive properties. It supports emolliency by smoothing surface irregularities and aids conditioning by lowering friction. The structure ensures a lightweight, non-tacky finish that permits skin respiration and moisture balance, making it ideal for performance-driven formulations in personal care.

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.

Hair conditioning

Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Enhances product staying power and water resistance on skin and hair

Provides conditioning effects for softer, more manageable hair

Smooths skin texture as an emollient for improved slip and feel

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 desiring extended makeup wear without touch-ups	Those preferring silicone-free or natural-only products
Individuals with unruly hair seeking better shine and control	People with known contact allergies to siloxanes
Users wanting lightweight skin conditioning without heaviness	Consumers avoiding film-forming agents in routines

Safety Notes

Low hazard rating from environmental health assessments
Minimal irritation potential in cosmetic concentrations

Frequently Asked Questions about Phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate

What does phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate do in products?

It creates durable films for better adherence, water resistance, and shine in cosmetics and hair care.

Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it avoids pore blockage.

Can it be used on sensitive skin?

Low irritation potential makes it generally well-tolerated.