Ingredient review
Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer
INCI: DIMETHICONE/PEG-10 CROSSPOLYMER
A gentle silicone polymer that creates a smooth, breathable film on skin, improving product feel and wear without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a silicone-based ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps products spread easily, feel silky, and stay put longer. It's often used in moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup primers to give a smooth, non-greasy finish. Because it's a crosspolymer, it's less likely to feel heavy or sticky compared to some other silicones.
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/PEG-10 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 Dimethicone/PEG-10 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 where dimethicone (a common silicone) is chemically linked with PEG-10 (a polyethylene glycol chain). This crosslinking creates a larger, more stable molecule that can form a film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer that sits on top of the skin. This film helps lock in moisture, smooth out fine lines and pores, and can improve the water resistance of sunscreens. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly and gives a silky, velvety feel.
Pros
Silky, non-greasy feel
Creates a velvety texture that makes products feel luxurious and lightweight on the skin, without the heavy or sticky sensation some moisturizers leave behind.
Improves product performance
Helps sunscreens resist water and sweat, and helps makeup stay in place longer, so you get more out of your products throughout the day.
Cons and cautions
Not biodegradable
As a synthetic silicone polymer, it does not break down easily in the environment, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.
Can require double cleansing
The film it forms may not rinse off completely with just water and a gentle cleanser, so you might need an oil-based cleanser first to avoid buildup.
Best for
- People who want a smooth, non-greasy finish
- Those looking for improved sunscreen water resistance
- Makeup users wanting longer wear
Use caution if
- Individuals with a strong preference for silicone-free products
- Those who find silicones cause buildup or clogging (though this one is low-comedogenic)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. The PEG component is generally safe at the low concentrations used, though some consumers prefer to avoid PEGs due to potential contamination concerns (which are regulated).
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that dimethicone and related crosspolymers are safe as used in cosmetics. There is limited independent research on this specific crosspolymer, but its chemical class is well-studied and considered low-risk.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (USA) and EU CosIng database, with no concentration restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Primers, Color Cosmetics
- Environmental note
- Silicone polymers like this are not readily biodegradable and can accumulate in aquatic environments. Some brands are moving toward more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.
- It is often used in 'silicone-based' primers to create a smooth canvas for foundation.
Common questions
What is Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a silicone-based ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps products spread easily, feel silky, and stay put longer. It's often used in moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup primers to give a smooth, non-greasy finish. Because it's a crosspolymer, it's less likely to feel heavy or sticky compared to some other silicones.
What does Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer that sits on top of the skin. This film helps lock in moisture, smooth out fine lines and pores, and can improve the water resistance of sunscreens. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly and gives a silky, velvety feel.
Is Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. The PEG component is generally safe at the low concentrations used, though some consumers prefer to avoid PEGs due to potential contamination concerns (which are regulated).
Who should be careful with Dimethicone/PEG-10 Crosspolymer?
Individuals with a strong preference for silicone-free products Those who find silicones cause buildup or clogging (though this one is low-comedogenic)
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.