Ingredient review
Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer
INCI: BIS-VINYLDIMETHICONE/BIS-ISOBUTYL PPG-20 CROSSPOLYMER
A silicone polymer that gives products a silky, smooth feel and helps them stay put without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a synthetic silicone ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It makes creams and makeup glide on smoothly, reduces greasiness, and helps the product last longer. It's often used in primers and sunscreens to improve texture and water resistance. Because it's a large molecule, it sits on the surface and is unlikely to clog pores or cause irritation.
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-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 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-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 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 crosslinked silicone polymer made from dimethicone and PPG-20 derivatives. It's a large, non-absorbable molecule designed to create a breathable film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, it forms a uniform, flexible film that smooths the skin's surface, reduces friction, and helps other ingredients stay in place. It also repels water, improving the water resistance of sunscreens and long-wear makeup.
Pros
Silky texture without grease
Gives a smooth, velvety feel that reduces the need for heavy oils, making products feel lighter on the skin.
Boosts wear and water resistance
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer, even in humid or wet conditions, without feeling sticky.
Cons and cautions
Not biodegradable
As a silicone-based polymer, it does not break down easily in the environment, which is a concern for eco-conscious users.
Can feel heavy on very oily skin
In high concentrations, the film may feel slightly occlusive or heavy for those with extremely oily or acne-prone skin.
Best for
- People who want a smooth, velvety finish in makeup or skincare
- Those looking for long-wear or water-resistant products
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer silicone-free or fully biodegradable formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Limited independent studies specific to this polymer, but silicone crosspolymers as a class are well-tolerated and widely used. Safety assessments rely on analog data from similar silicone compounds.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Foundations, Primers, Sunscreens, Moisturizers, Eye creams
- Environmental note
- Silicone polymers like this one are not readily biodegradable and may persist in aquatic environments. Some brands are moving toward biodegradable alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of an ingredient list because it's used in small amounts.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used as intended in cosmetics.
Common questions
What is Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a synthetic silicone ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It makes creams and makeup glide on smoothly, reduces greasiness, and helps the product last longer. It's often used in primers and sunscreens to improve texture and water resistance. Because it's a large molecule, it sits on the surface and is unlikely to clog pores or cause irritation.
What does Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, it forms a uniform, flexible film that smooths the skin's surface, reduces friction, and helps other ingredients stay in place. It also repels water, improving the water resistance of sunscreens and long-wear makeup.
Is Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer?
Individuals who prefer silicone-free or fully biodegradable formulations
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.