Ingredient review
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Crosspolymer
INCI: DIVINYLDIMETHICONE/DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER
A silicone powder that gives a silky, blurring finish and helps control shine without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a type of silicone that has been crosslinked into a soft, powder-like form. When you apply it to your skin, it feels velvety smooth and helps fill in fine lines and pores for a blurred, matte look. It also absorbs excess oil, making it popular in primers and foundations for oily or combination skin. Unlike some silicones that can feel heavy, this one is lightweight and breathable.
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 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 Divinyldimethicone/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 synthetic silicone polymer that has been chemically crosslinked to form a three-dimensional network. It is a solid, powder-like material that is often dispersed in a carrier fluid like dimethicone for use in cosmetics.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the crosspolymer particles form a thin, flexible film that smooths the skin's surface. The network structure also traps and absorbs excess sebum, reducing shine. It does not penetrate the skin, so it sits on top and provides a cosmetic effect.
Pros
Silky, blurring finish
The crosspolymer creates a velvety, soft-focus effect on skin, helping to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines without feeling heavy.
Oil-absorbing power
Its network structure traps excess sebum, making it excellent for controlling shine throughout the day, especially in primers and foundations.
Cons and cautions
Silicone-based ingredient
If you prefer to avoid silicones for environmental or personal reasons, this ingredient is not an option. It is fully synthetic and not biodegradable.
Requires thorough cleansing
Because it forms a film on the skin, it can be stubborn to remove with a gentle cleanser alone. Double cleansing with an oil-based first step is often needed.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin looking for shine control
- Anyone who wants a smooth, pore-blurring makeup primer
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare or makeup
Usage tips
Safety summary
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and does not clog pores. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicone crosspolymers and found them safe as used.
Research notes
There is limited direct research on this specific crosspolymer, but the broader class of dimethicone crosspolymers has been evaluated by the CIR panel and deemed safe. Studies show they are not absorbed through the skin and have low toxicity.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Primers, Foundations, Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Color cosmetics
- Environmental note
- Silicones like this are not biodegradable and can accumulate in the environment. Some consumers choose silicone-free alternatives for this reason.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed as part of a blend with dimethicone or other silicones on the label.
- It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Common questions
What is Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a type of silicone that has been crosslinked into a soft, powder-like form. When you apply it to your skin, it feels velvety smooth and helps fill in fine lines and pores for a blurred, matte look. It also absorbs excess oil, making it popular in primers and foundations for oily or combination skin. Unlike some silicones that can feel heavy, this one is lightweight and breathable.
What does Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the crosspolymer particles form a thin, flexible film that smooths the skin's surface. The network structure also traps and absorbs excess sebum, reducing shine. It does not penetrate the skin, so it sits on top and provides a cosmetic effect.
Is Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and does not clog pores. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicone crosspolymers and found them safe as used.
Who should be careful with Divinyldimethicone/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.