Ingredient review
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3
INCI: Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3
A gentle silicone powder that gives a silky, matte finish and helps control shine without clogging pores.
In plain English
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 is a silicone ingredient that feels like a fine, silky powder. When you put it on your skin, it creates a very thin, breathable layer that helps makeup stay in place, reduces the look of pores, and absorbs extra oil. It is not greasy and won't clog pores, making it a favorite in primers and mattifying 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
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 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 Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3.
- 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, meaning the silicone molecules are linked together into a larger network. This gives it a powder-like texture rather than a liquid or gel.
How it works
It forms a thin, flexible film on the skin's surface that smooths out uneven texture and absorbs excess sebum. The film is breathable, so it doesn't trap bacteria or cause breakouts, and it helps other ingredients spread evenly.
Pros
Silky matte finish
Gives a smooth, non-greasy feel that helps control shine throughout the day, especially in primers and foundations.
Pore-blurring effect
The fine powder fills in uneven texture and makes pores look smaller, creating a soft-focus effect.
Cons and cautions
Can feel drying
On very dry or flaky skin, the powder-like texture may emphasize dryness rather than hydrate.
Environmental persistence
As a silicone derivative, it is not readily biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin who want a matte finish
- Anyone looking for a primer that smooths skin texture
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who prefer a dewy, hydrating finish
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 is considered safe for cosmetic use. It is non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and well-tolerated by most skin types. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicone crosspolymers and found them safe as used.
Research notes
Research on silicone crosspolymers focuses on their sensory and film-forming properties. They are widely used in cosmetics and have a long history of safe use. No significant safety concerns have been raised in peer-reviewed literature.
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.
- Common uses
- Primers, Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Color Cosmetics
- Environmental note
- Silicone crosspolymers are not biodegradable; however, they are used in low concentrations and are considered low-risk for aquatic life in typical rinse-off amounts.
Good to know
- It is often combined with liquid silicones to create a creamy but matte texture.
- Unlike some silicones, it is not water-soluble and requires oil-based cleansers for full removal.
Common questions
What is Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 in beauty products?
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 is a silicone ingredient that feels like a fine, silky powder. When you put it on your skin, it creates a very thin, breathable layer that helps makeup stay in place, reduces the look of pores, and absorbs extra oil. It is not greasy and won't clog pores, making it a favorite in primers and mattifying products.
What does Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 do in a beauty product?
It forms a thin, flexible film on the skin's surface that smooths out uneven texture and absorbs excess sebum. The film is breathable, so it doesn't trap bacteria or cause breakouts, and it helps other ingredients spread evenly.
Is Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 safe for most people?
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 is considered safe for cosmetic use. It is non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and well-tolerated by most skin types. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicone crosspolymers and found them safe as used.
Who should be careful with Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3?
Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who prefer a dewy, hydrating finish
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.