Ingredient review
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer
INCI: DIVINYLDIMETHICONE/DIMETHICONE COPOLYMER
A gentle silicone polymer that helps products spread smoothly, feel silky, and last longer without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. It helps makeup glide on evenly, reduces the look of fine lines temporarily, and makes products feel silky and smooth. It's not absorbed into the skin and is generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
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
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer 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 Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer.
- 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 created by crosslinking divinyldimethicone with dimethicone. It is a high-molecular-weight ingredient that does not penetrate the skin but sits on the surface to create a smooth, even film.
How it works
When applied, the polymer forms a thin, breathable film on the skin or hair. This film helps other ingredients (like pigments or active ingredients) stay in place, reduces water loss from the skin, and gives a soft, velvety feel. It also helps products resist smudging and fading.
Pros
Improves product wear
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay put for hours without smudging or fading, so you need fewer touch-ups.
Silky, non-greasy feel
Gives a velvety smooth texture that doesn't feel heavy or sticky, making it pleasant to wear even in humid weather.
Cons and cautions
Potential buildup on hair
In high concentrations or with infrequent washing, it can leave a residue on hair that makes it feel heavy or dull.
Environmental persistence
As a synthetic silicone, it does not break down easily in the environment, which is a concern for eco-conscious consumers.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing makeup or sunscreen
- Those with oily or combination skin looking for a matte, smooth finish
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer silicone-free or fully biodegradable products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is not absorbed into the skin. However, its environmental persistence is a concern.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that dimethicone and related silicone polymers are safe for use in cosmetics. Studies show no significant skin irritation or sensitization at typical concentrations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5% in most formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU (CosIng), and other major markets. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Primers, Foundations, Sunscreens, Long-wear makeup, Hair serums
- Environmental note
- Silicones like this are not biodegradable and may accumulate in aquatic environments. Some brands are moving toward biodegradable alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often combined with other silicones to create a 'crosspolymer' that is even more resistant to water and sweat.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used in typical cosmetic concentrations.
Common questions
What is Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer in beauty products?
This is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. It helps makeup glide on evenly, reduces the look of fine lines temporarily, and makes products feel silky and smooth. It's not absorbed into the skin and is generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
What does Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer forms a thin, breathable film on the skin or hair. This film helps other ingredients (like pigments or active ingredients) stay in place, reduces water loss from the skin, and gives a soft, velvety feel. It also helps products resist smudging and fading.
Is Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer safe for most people?
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is not absorbed into the skin. However, its environmental persistence is a concern.
Who should be careful with Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer?
Individuals who prefer silicone-free or fully biodegradable products
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.