Ingredient review
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone/Phenylsilsesquioxane Crosspolymer
INCI: DIVINYLDIMETHICONE/DIMETHICONE/PHENYLSILSESQUIOXANE CROSSPOLYMER
A silicone powder that gives a silky, blurring finish and helps control oil without clogging pores.
In plain English
This ingredient is a type of silicone that has been turned into a very fine powder. When you put it on your skin, it feels silky and smooth, and it helps fill in fine lines and pores so your makeup goes on more evenly. It also absorbs extra oil, which can help keep your skin looking matte 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
Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone/Phenylsilsesquioxane 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/Phenylsilsesquioxane 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 into a powder form. It combines three different silicone units to create a soft, spherical particle that feels lightweight on the skin.
How it works
It sits on the surface of the skin, absorbing excess sebum and creating a smooth, even film. This film helps makeup stay in place longer and gives a soft-focus effect by scattering light, which makes pores and fine lines less noticeable.
Pros
Silky, blurring finish
The powder particles scatter light, making pores and fine lines look softer and less visible. This gives skin a smooth, airbrushed appearance.
Oil control without clogging
It absorbs excess sebum, helping to reduce shine throughout the day. It has a low comedogenic rating, so it is unlikely to clog pores.
Cons and cautions
Can be drying for some
Because it absorbs oil, it may leave very dry or dehydrated skin feeling tight or flaky. It is best suited for normal to oily skin types.
Not eco-friendly
As a silicone-based ingredient, it is not biodegradable and can contribute to environmental accumulation. Some consumers prefer plant-based alternatives for sustainability reasons.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin who want a matte finish
- Anyone looking for a primer or foundation that smooths skin texture
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or dehydrated skin, as it may emphasize dryness
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. However, as with any ingredient, patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Research notes
There is limited peer-reviewed research specifically on this crosspolymer, but it is structurally similar to other silicone crosspolymers that have been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel and found safe at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicone crosspolymers and found them safe as used.
- Common uses
- Primers, Foundations, Sunscreens, Moisturizers, Powders
- Environmental note
- Silicone crosspolymers are not biodegradable and may persist in the environment. Some brands are moving toward biodegradable alternatives, but this ingredient remains widely used for its performance.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of an ingredient list because it is used in small amounts.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone/Phenylsilsesquioxane Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a type of silicone that has been turned into a very fine powder. When you put it on your skin, it feels silky and smooth, and it helps fill in fine lines and pores so your makeup goes on more evenly. It also absorbs extra oil, which can help keep your skin looking matte throughout the day.
What does Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone/Phenylsilsesquioxane Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
It sits on the surface of the skin, absorbing excess sebum and creating a smooth, even film. This film helps makeup stay in place longer and gives a soft-focus effect by scattering light, which makes pores and fine lines less noticeable.
Is Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone/Phenylsilsesquioxane Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. However, as with any ingredient, patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone/Phenylsilsesquioxane Crosspolymer?
Those with very dry or dehydrated skin, as it may emphasize dryness
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.