Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions by creating a resilient, non-occlusive barrier on the skin, which precisely locks in moisture and guards against environmental stressors. In formulations, it acts as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and stabilizer, significantly improving texture, spreadability, and slip, ensuring a luxuriously smooth application. Certain specialized forms can also efficiently absorb excess oil.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Dimethicone Crosspolymer is typically supplied as swollen gels within various oils, including silicone oils, and is highly effective at increasing viscosity in non-aqueous systems. Specific variants, like vinyldimethyl/trimethylsiloxysilicate stearyl dimethicone crosspolymer (20% in isododecane), demonstrate excellent stability for at least one year under standard storage conditions.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has thoroughly assessed 62 dimethicone crosspolymer ingredients, concluding they are safe for use in cosmetics. This safety is attributed to their large molecular size, which precludes skin penetration, and their lack of water solubility. Dermal irritation and sensitization studies have reported no adverse effects. It is deemed non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic, exhibiting low allergenic potential. Any concerns regarding residual monomers have been addressed, with levels in cosmetic formulations considered safe. The maximum reported use concentration for leave-on products is 25%, while powder cosmetics may contain up to 46%.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, praised for its ability to enhance cosmetic formulations and provide significant skin benefits, including hydration and smoothing, with a robust safety profile across all skin types.
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