Ingredient review
Bis-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
INCI: BIS-PHENYLISOPROPYL PHENYLISOPROPYL DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER
A high-performance silicone that creates a smooth, silky feel on skin without clogging pores or causing irritation.
In plain English
This is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps makeup glide on smoothly, blurs pores and fine lines, and gives a soft, velvety finish. Unlike some older silicones, it's designed to be breathable and non-greasy, so it feels light on the skin.
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-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer 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-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer.
- 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 made by crosslinking dimethicone (a common silicone) with phenyl-modified silicone groups. This structure gives it both film-forming and oil-absorbing properties.
How it works
When applied, the polymer spreads into a thin, even layer that adheres to the skin. It fills in uneven texture and creates a smooth surface for makeup. The film also helps lock in moisture and can improve the water resistance of sunscreens.
Pros
Smooth, silky feel
Creates a velvety texture that helps makeup apply evenly and last longer, without feeling heavy or sticky.
Low irritation risk
Rarely causes allergic reactions or breakouts, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Silicone-based ingredient
Some people choose to avoid silicones due to concerns about environmental persistence or personal preference, though this type is generally considered safe.
May not suit very oily skin
In heavy formulations, it can feel a bit slick on extremely oily skin, though it's still non-comedogenic.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a smooth, pore-blurring primer or makeup base
- People with normal to combination skin who want a soft-focus finish
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare or makeup routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Extensively tested and considered safe for topical use. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. No significant safety concerns at typical use levels.
Research notes
Clinical and safety data support its use as a film former and texture enhancer. Studies show it does not clog pores or cause irritation. More research is ongoing on environmental fate.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database. No known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Primers, Foundations, Sunscreens, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- Silicones can persist in the environment, but this crosspolymer form is less likely to bioaccumulate than some linear silicones. Recycling and proper disposal help reduce impact.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'pore-filling' primers and long-wear foundations.
- It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types.
Common questions
What is Bis-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps makeup glide on smoothly, blurs pores and fine lines, and gives a soft, velvety finish. Unlike some older silicones, it's designed to be breathable and non-greasy, so it feels light on the skin.
What does Bis-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer spreads into a thin, even layer that adheres to the skin. It fills in uneven texture and creates a smooth surface for makeup. The film also helps lock in moisture and can improve the water resistance of sunscreens.
Is Bis-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Extensively tested and considered safe for topical use. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. No significant safety concerns at typical use levels.
Who should be careful with Bis-Phenylisopropyl Phenylisopropyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare or makeup routine
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.