Ingredient review
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer
INCI: Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer
A gentle silicone that helps products glide on smoothly and feel lightweight, but may not suit those avoiding silicones.
In plain English
This is a type of silicone that has been chemically modified to form a flexible, breathable film on your skin. It helps creams and lotions spread easily without feeling greasy or heavy. Think of it as a smoothing agent that makes your skincare or makeup feel silky and helps it last longer.
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-10/15 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-10/15 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 is crosslinked (chemically bonded) to create a network structure. This gives it unique properties like a soft, powdery feel and the ability to hold ingredients together in a stable formula.
How it works
When applied, it forms a thin, flexible film on the skin's surface. This film helps other ingredients stay in place, reduces water loss from the skin (acting as a mild occlusive), and gives a smooth, velvety finish. It also helps control the thickness of a product so it dispenses and spreads nicely.
Pros
Smooth, silky texture
Creates a velvety, non-greasy feel that makes products pleasant to apply and helps makeup glide on evenly.
Improves product stability
Helps maintain the consistency of creams and lotions, preventing separation and ensuring a uniform application every time.
Cons and cautions
Not biodegradable
As a synthetic silicone, it does not break down easily in the environment, which is a concern for eco-conscious users.
May require double cleansing
Its film-forming nature can make it resistant to water-based cleansers, so you might need an oil-based cleanser to remove it fully.
Best for
- People who want a smooth, primer-like finish under makeup
- Those with normal to oily skin looking for a lightweight, non-greasy feel
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer silicone-free skincare routines
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. However, those with a strong preference for natural or biodegradable ingredients may choose to avoid it.
Research notes
Silicone crosspolymers are well-studied for their sensory and stabilizing properties in cosmetics. Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have found them safe as used. There is limited research on long-term environmental impact.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and the European Commission, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Primers, Foundations
- Environmental note
- Silicones like this one are not biodegradable and can accumulate in water systems. Some manufacturers are working on more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'primer' products because of its ability to fill in fine lines and pores temporarily.
- It is considered non-comedogenic for most skin types, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores.
Common questions
What is Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a type of silicone that has been chemically modified to form a flexible, breathable film on your skin. It helps creams and lotions spread easily without feeling greasy or heavy. Think of it as a smoothing agent that makes your skincare or makeup feel silky and helps it last longer.
What does Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, it forms a thin, flexible film on the skin's surface. This film helps other ingredients stay in place, reduces water loss from the skin (acting as a mild occlusive), and gives a smooth, velvety finish. It also helps control the thickness of a product so it dispenses and spreads nicely.
Is Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. However, those with a strong preference for natural or biodegradable ingredients may choose to avoid it.
Who should be careful with Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer?
Individuals who prefer silicone-free skincare routines
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.