Ingredient review
Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
INCI: Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
A silicone polymer that creates a smooth, flexible film on skin, helping makeup last longer and feel lightweight.
In plain English
Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a type of silicone that forms a thin, breathable film on your skin. It helps makeup stay put without feeling heavy or sticky, and it can also give products a silky, smooth feel. Think of it like a flexible, invisible shield that helps your foundation or sunscreen stay in place throughout the day.
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
Diphenyl 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 Diphenyl 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 crosslinked silicone polymer, meaning its molecules are linked together in a network. This structure gives it film-forming and thickening properties without being greasy.
How it works
When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer that dries down to a flexible, water-resistant film. This film helps other ingredients (like pigments or sunscreen actives) stay on the skin longer and resist smudging or rubbing off.
Pros
Long-wear performance
Creates a flexible film that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put for hours, reducing the need for touch-ups.
Lightweight feel
Unlike some older film formers, this silicone polymer feels silky and non-greasy, making it comfortable for daily wear.
Cons and cautions
Potential tightness on dry skin
The film can feel slightly tightening or drying if your skin is very dry, especially if used in high concentrations.
Not for silicone-free routines
If you prefer to avoid silicones for personal or environmental reasons, this ingredient won't fit your routine.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-lasting makeup or sunscreen
- People with oily or combination skin who prefer a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare or makeup
Usage tips
Safety summary
Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any silicone, some individuals may prefer to avoid it for personal or environmental reasons.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that dimethicone crosspolymers are safe in cosmetics. Research primarily focuses on their film-forming and sensory properties rather than biological activity.
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, with no known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Foundations, Primers, Sunscreens, Long-wear makeup, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- As a silicone polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, its crosslinked structure may reduce environmental mobility compared to linear silicones.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'transfer-proof' or '24-hour wear' makeup formulas.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer in beauty products?
Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a type of silicone that forms a thin, breathable film on your skin. It helps makeup stay put without feeling heavy or sticky, and it can also give products a silky, smooth feel. Think of it like a flexible, invisible shield that helps your foundation or sunscreen stay in place throughout the day.
What does Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer that dries down to a flexible, water-resistant film. This film helps other ingredients (like pigments or sunscreen actives) stay on the skin longer and resist smudging or rubbing off.
Is Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any silicone, some individuals may prefer to avoid it for personal or environmental reasons.
Who should be careful with Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare or makeup
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.