Ingredient review
Bis-Dimethicone
INCI: Bis-Dimethicone
A gentle silicone that helps products glide on smoothly and lock in moisture without clogging pores.
In plain English
Bis-Dimethicone is a type of silicone that forms a thin, breathable film on your skin. This film helps your moisturizer or sunscreen spread easily, reduces tackiness, and can improve water resistance. It's very similar to dimethicone but has a slightly different molecular structure that can offer a silkier feel and better stability in formulas. Because it sits on top of the skin rather than penetrating, it's generally non-irritating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
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-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-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 (a long-chain molecule) created by linking dimethicone units together. It belongs to the family of film-forming silicones used in cosmetics.
How it works
When applied, Bis-Dimethicone evaporates its solvent (usually a volatile silicone or water) and leaves behind a uniform, flexible film. This film smooths the skin's surface, reduces water loss (improves barrier function), and helps other ingredients stay in place. It also gives products a silky, non-greasy feel.
Pros
Silky, non-greasy feel
Bis-Dimethicone gives products a luxurious, velvety texture that glides on without leaving a sticky or oily residue.
Boosts water resistance
In sunscreens and long-wear makeup, it helps the product stay put longer, even in humid conditions or during light sweating.
Cons and cautions
Not biodegradable
Like many silicones, Bis-Dimethicone is not readily biodegradable, which may be a concern for environmentally conscious users.
Can feel heavy on very oily skin
If used in high amounts, the film it forms may feel slightly occlusive or heavy for those with very oily or acne-prone skin.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a smooth, non-greasy finish in moisturizers or primers
- People with normal to dry skin who want extra barrier protection
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones due to personal preference or environmental concerns
Usage tips
Safety summary
Bis-Dimethicone is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicones and found them safe as used.
Research notes
Research on Bis-Dimethicone specifically is limited, but it is structurally similar to dimethicone and other well-studied silicones. Studies confirm that film-forming silicones improve product aesthetics and water resistance without significant skin penetration or irritation.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU (CosIng), and other major markets. No concentration restrictions are specified, but typical use is under 10%.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Primers, Sunscreens, Foundations
- Environmental note
- Silicones like Bis-Dimethicone are not biodegradable and can accumulate in the environment. Some brands are moving toward biodegradable alternatives.
Good to know
- Bis-Dimethicone is often used in 'water-resistant' sunscreens to help the formula stay effective during swimming or sweating.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Bis-Dimethicone in beauty products?
Bis-Dimethicone is a type of silicone that forms a thin, breathable film on your skin. This film helps your moisturizer or sunscreen spread easily, reduces tackiness, and can improve water resistance. It's very similar to dimethicone but has a slightly different molecular structure that can offer a silkier feel and better stability in formulas. Because it sits on top of the skin rather than penetrating, it's generally non-irritating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
What does Bis-Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
When applied, Bis-Dimethicone evaporates its solvent (usually a volatile silicone or water) and leaves behind a uniform, flexible film. This film smooths the skin's surface, reduces water loss (improves barrier function), and helps other ingredients stay in place. It also gives products a silky, non-greasy feel.
Is Bis-Dimethicone safe for most people?
Bis-Dimethicone is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicones and found them safe as used.
Who should be careful with Bis-Dimethicone?
Those who strictly avoid silicones due to personal preference or environmental concerns
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.