Ingredient review
Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone
INCI: BIS-AMINOPROPYL DIMETHICONE
A gentle silicone that adds slip and shine to hair and a silky feel to skin, with low irritation potential.
In plain English
Bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is a type of silicone that sticks lightly to hair and skin. It helps reduce frizz, adds a smooth feel, and makes hair easier to comb. Unlike some older silicones, it is designed to be less likely to build up over time, so it works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic silicone polymer with amino (amine) groups attached. These amine groups give it a positive charge, which helps it bind to negatively charged hair and skin surfaces.
How it works
The amino groups in bis-aminopropyl dimethicone create an electrostatic attraction to hair and skin, forming a thin, flexible film. This film reduces friction, smooths the cuticle, and helps retain moisture. In skin care, it leaves a soft, non-greasy finish.
Pros
Gentle conditioning
Provides slip and shine without heavy buildup, making it suitable for frequent use.
Low irritation risk
Rated low for both irritation and comedogenicity, so it is generally safe for sensitive skin and acne-prone scalps.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a silicone, it is not natural or biodegradable, which may be a concern for eco-conscious consumers.
Can weigh down fine hair
If used in high concentrations or too frequently, it may cause limpness or dullness in very fine or low-porosity hair.
Best for
- Anyone looking for frizz control and smoothness in hair
- People with dry or damaged hair needing gentle conditioning
Use caution if
- Those strictly avoiding all silicones
- Individuals with very fine hair who prefer lightweight, non-film-forming ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Research notes
Studies on amodimethicone (a closely related ingredient) show effective conditioning and low irritation. Specific research on bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is limited, but its safety profile is supported by broader silicone safety data.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use globally, including by the EU CosIng database and FDA (as part of cosmetic ingredients). No specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Shampoos, Conditioners, Leave-in treatments, Serums, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- Silicones are generally not biodegradable, but bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is designed to be less persistent than some older silicones. Still, it may accumulate in aquatic environments.
Good to know
- Bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is often listed under the broader INCI name 'Amodimethicone' in some formulations.
- It is considered a 'next-generation' silicone designed to reduce environmental persistence compared to older types.
Common questions
What is Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone in beauty products?
Bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is a type of silicone that sticks lightly to hair and skin. It helps reduce frizz, adds a smooth feel, and makes hair easier to comb. Unlike some older silicones, it is designed to be less likely to build up over time, so it works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products.
What does Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
The amino groups in bis-aminopropyl dimethicone create an electrostatic attraction to hair and skin, forming a thin, flexible film. This film reduces friction, smooths the cuticle, and helps retain moisture. In skin care, it leaves a soft, non-greasy finish.
Is Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone safe for most people?
Bis-aminopropyl dimethicone is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Who should be careful with Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone?
Those strictly avoiding all silicones Individuals with very fine hair who prefer lightweight, non-film-forming ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.