Ingredient review

Dimethiconol/Silica Crosspolymer

INCI: DIMETHICONOL/SILICA CROSSPOLYMER

A silicone powder that soaks up excess oil and gives a silky, non-greasy feel—great for shine control and blurring pores.

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In plain English

This is a silicone-based powder that feels silky and helps control shine. It works by absorbing extra oil on your skin or hair, leaving a smooth, matte finish. You'll often find it in primers, powders, and foundations to help makeup stay put and look less greasy.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

4.0Good
4.0/ 5

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
semi synthetic
Evidence
moderate
Irritation
low
Clogging risk
low
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Dimethiconol/Silica 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dimethiconol/Silica Crosspolymer.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A crosslinked silicone polymer combined with silica, forming a fine, porous powder that can absorb oil and add a silky texture to products.

How it works

Its porous structure traps excess sebum and moisture, reducing shine and helping other ingredients spread evenly. It also gives a velvety, non-tacky feel to formulas.

Pros

Excellent oil control

Absorbs excess sebum, helping reduce shine throughout the day without feeling heavy.

Silky, blurring finish

Creates a smooth, velvety texture that can visually soften pores and fine lines.

Cons and cautions

May be drying

For dry skin types, the oil-absorbing effect can make skin feel tight or flaky.

Can be hard to remove

If used in high concentrations, it may require double cleansing to fully wash off.

Best for

  • People with oily or combination skin
  • Anyone wanting a matte finish or longer-lasting makeup

Use caution if

  • Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who prefer a dewy look

Usage tips

Use a small amount in primers or powders to control shine without caking.
If you have dry skin, layer a hydrating moisturizer underneath products containing this ingredient.

Safety summary

Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical levels. Low irritation and comedogenic risk, but may be drying for some skin types.

Research notes

Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this crosspolymer, but silicones and silica are well-studied and generally recognized as safe in cosmetics by expert panels.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
1% to 10%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics globally with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
Common uses
Primers, Foundations, Powders, Sunscreens, Hair styling products
Environmental note
As a silicone-based compound, it may not be biodegradable. Some consumers prefer silicone-free alternatives for environmental reasons.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often used in 'blur' primers and mattifying powders.
  • It is considered non-comedogenic for most people, but patch test if you are prone to breakouts.

Common questions

What is Dimethiconol/Silica Crosspolymer in beauty products?

This is a silicone-based powder that feels silky and helps control shine. It works by absorbing extra oil on your skin or hair, leaving a smooth, matte finish. You'll often find it in primers, powders, and foundations to help makeup stay put and look less greasy.

What does Dimethiconol/Silica Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?

Its porous structure traps excess sebum and moisture, reducing shine and helping other ingredients spread evenly. It also gives a velvety, non-tacky feel to formulas.

Is Dimethiconol/Silica Crosspolymer safe for most people?

Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical levels. Low irritation and comedogenic risk, but may be drying for some skin types.

Who should be careful with Dimethiconol/Silica Crosspolymer?

Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who prefer a dewy look

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety of SiliconesOpenPubChem - SilicaOpenPersonal Care Council - Silicone PolymersOpen

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.