Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

BIS-C16-18 ALKYL GLYCERYL UNDECYL DIMETHICONE.

Valuable / EMULSION STABILISING, FILM FORMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

A sophisticated, moisture-responsive silicone hybrid designed to bridge the gap between long-wear performance and skin hydration. This amphiphilic polymer creates an intelligent, breathable shield that locks in moisture while maintaining high pigment integrity.

Film forming Emulsion stabilizing Moisture retention Pigment dispersion

Science

This ingredient functions through a 'gel membrane' mechanism, utilizing its unique structure of hydrophobic alkyl chains and hydrophilic glyceryl groups. Upon contact with the skin's natural moisture evaporation, the polymer reorganizes into a flexible, vapor-permeable matrix that traps hydration and active pigments against the surface without a heavy or occlusive feel.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated significant reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) via a non-sticky, thin-film barrier.
  2. 02 Successfully utilized in moisture-reactive 'gel membrane' technology for superior color retention and adhesive properties.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

As a functional film-former and stabilizer, it requires concentrations of at least 1% to effectively influence the texture and wear-time of a formulation; levels below this typically indicate label-only inclusion.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits excellent stability in anhydrous systems and water-in-oil/silicone emulsions. It is particularly valued for raising the melting point of stick products and preventing pigment sedimentation.

Synergies

  • Inorganic pigments
  • Glycerin
  • Volatile silicones

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

While not yet formally reviewed by the CIR, it is categorized as a safe synthetic silicone and is well-tolerated across global cosmetic databases including Cosmile Europe.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

An elite dual-purpose stabilizer and film-former that provides long-lasting cosmetic wear without compromising the skin's moisture barrier.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…