Ingredient review
Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer
INCI: BIS-VINYLDIMETHICONE/PEG-10 DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER
A gentle silicone emulsifier that improves product texture and stability without clogging pores or irritating skin.
In plain English
This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps mix water and oil in skincare products, giving them a smooth, silky feel. It also helps the product spread easily and feel lightweight on your skin. Think of it as a helper that keeps the formula stable and pleasant to use.
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-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 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-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 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 that acts as an emulsifier and texture modifier. It is created by crosslinking dimethicone (a common silicone) with PEG-10, which adds water-friendly properties.
How it works
It forms a flexible network that stabilizes emulsions (mixtures of oil and water) and creates a thin, breathable film on the skin. This film gives a smooth, velvety finish and helps other ingredients spread evenly.
Pros
Silky texture
Creates a smooth, velvety feel on skin that makes products pleasant to apply and wear.
Stable formulas
Helps keep oil and water mixed together, so your product stays consistent and effective over time.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made from silicones and PEG, which some people prefer to avoid for environmental or personal reasons.
Not biodegradable
Like many silicones, it does not break down easily in the environment, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys lightweight, silky moisturizers or primers
- People with oily or combination skin looking for a non-greasy finish
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones or synthetic ingredients in their routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. PEG component is purified to remove impurities. No major safety concerns in typical cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Limited independent studies on this specific crosspolymer, but silicone emulsifiers as a class are well-tolerated. Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) support its use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (US) and EU CosIng database, with no concentration restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Primers, Foundations
- Environmental note
- Silicone crosspolymers are not readily biodegradable, but they are used in low concentrations and are not known to accumulate in the environment significantly.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'silicone-based' primers and moisturizers for a blurring effect.
- It is considered safe by cosmetic safety panels when used as intended.
Common questions
What is Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps mix water and oil in skincare products, giving them a smooth, silky feel. It also helps the product spread easily and feel lightweight on your skin. Think of it as a helper that keeps the formula stable and pleasant to use.
What does Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
It forms a flexible network that stabilizes emulsions (mixtures of oil and water) and creates a thin, breathable film on the skin. This film gives a smooth, velvety finish and helps other ingredients spread evenly.
Is Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. PEG component is purified to remove impurities. No major safety concerns in typical cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Bis-Vinyldimethicone/PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Those who strictly avoid silicones or synthetic ingredients in their 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.