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DIMETHICONE/PEG-10/15 CROSSPOLYMER.

Valuable / FILM FORMING, OPACIFYING

Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer is a sophisticated silicone elastomer designed to enhance formulation stability and sensory experience. It functions as an effective emulsifier, viscosity controller, and texture modifier, creating a smooth, luxurious feel on the skin.

Summary

Emulsifying Viscosity controlling Sensory enhancer Texture modifier Suspending agent Optical blurring

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient is a cross-linked silicone elastomer featuring a dimethicone backbone with grafted polyether (PEG-10 and PEG-15) chains. This unique amphiphilic structure allows it to form a three-dimensional gel network, effectively thickening formulas, suspending oils, and acting as a primary emulsifier for water-in-silicone (W/Si) and W/O/W emulsions. It can stabilize a high internal water phase, up to 90%, and build viscosity, creating soft, cushiony gel matrices. Beyond structural benefits, it improves sensory properties, imparting a silky slip, a quick-dry, powdery after-feel, and contributing to optical blurring of fine lines. It also aids in uniform distribution of sunscreens and colorants on the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.03–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Reported use across 51 leave-on cosmetic products, indicating broad application and safety.
  2. 02 Effective concentration range in water-releasing cosmetic compositions, based on composition weight, suggesting its utility in such formulations.
  3. 03 A solution of the polymer in dimethicone was found to be non-irritating in a human patch test involving 45 subjects, supporting its excellent skin tolerance.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

As a silicone elastomer and gel network former, this ingredient is designed to integrate smoothly into formulations rather than creating a 'dusting' effect on the skin.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3.5 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient exhibits stability within a pH range of approximately 4 to 9, with some sources indicating stability from 3.5 to 7. It tolerates moderate salt levels, making it suitable for formulas rich in active ingredients. Though water solubility is low (<0.1 g/L at 20°C), its amphiphilic nature allows it to be water dispersible, forming stable emulsions with both water and oil phases.

Conflicts

  • Very high levels of ethanol (exceeding 20%)
  • Strong bases (pH greater than 10)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
7%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed dimethicone crosspolymer ingredients, including Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, safe for use in cosmetics under typical concentrations and practices. Its high molecular weight restricts dermal absorption, contributing to a low systemic exposure risk. Furthermore, a 20-30% solution of the polymer in dimethicone demonstrated non-irritancy in human skin patch tests.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

DIMETHICONE/PEG-10/15 CROSSPOLYMER is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, enhancing product stability, texture, and sensory attributes across all skin types, with a strong safety profile.

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