Ingredient review
Polysilicone-22
INCI: POLYSILICONE-22
Polysilicone-22 is a gentle film-forming silicone that helps products resist water and sweat while leaving a smooth, non-greasy feel.
In plain English
Polysilicone-22 is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps other ingredients stay put longer and makes your skin feel silky smooth. It is often used in sunscreens and long-wear makeup to improve water resistance and prevent the product from rubbing off easily.
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
Polysilicone-22 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 Polysilicone-22.
- 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
Polysilicone-22 is a synthetic silicone polymer designed to create a breathable, water-resistant layer on the skin. It belongs to the polysilicone family, known for their smooth texture and film-forming abilities.
How it works
When applied, Polysilicone-22 spreads into a uniform, invisible film that adheres to the skin. This film acts as a barrier that slows water loss and helps other ingredients (like sunscreen filters or pigments) stay effective for longer. It also reduces friction, giving a silky, non-tacky finish.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Polysilicone-22 helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective even when you sweat or get wet, so you don't have to reapply as often.
Silky, non-greasy feel
It leaves a smooth, velvety finish on the skin without the heavy or sticky sensation some other film-formers can cause.
Cons and cautions
Potential buildup
Like many silicones, Polysilicone-22 can accumulate on the skin or hair over time, requiring a thorough double cleanse to remove completely.
Not ideal for silicone-sensitive skin
A small number of people find that silicones clog their pores or cause a tight feeling; if you've reacted to other silicones, you may want to patch-test.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing, water-resistant sunscreens or makeup
- Those with normal to dry skin looking for a smooth, protective finish
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer silicone-free routines or have experienced breakouts from silicones
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polysilicone-22 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. It is considered safe at typical use concentrations, though those with a history of silicone sensitivity should patch-test.
Research notes
Research on Polysilicone-22 is limited but consistent with other polysilicones. It is recognized as a safe film-former by cosmetic ingredient review panels. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. It is not classified as a restricted ingredient.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Primers, Long-wear foundations, Water-resistant lotions
- Environmental note
- Silicones like Polysilicone-22 are not biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment. Some brands are moving toward more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- Polysilicone-22 is often combined with other silicones or film-formers to fine-tune texture and water resistance.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies when used as directed.
Common questions
What is Polysilicone-22 in beauty products?
Polysilicone-22 is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps other ingredients stay put longer and makes your skin feel silky smooth. It is often used in sunscreens and long-wear makeup to improve water resistance and prevent the product from rubbing off easily.
What does Polysilicone-22 do in a beauty product?
When applied, Polysilicone-22 spreads into a uniform, invisible film that adheres to the skin. This film acts as a barrier that slows water loss and helps other ingredients (like sunscreen filters or pigments) stay effective for longer. It also reduces friction, giving a silky, non-tacky finish.
Is Polysilicone-22 safe for most people?
Polysilicone-22 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. It is considered safe at typical use concentrations, though those with a history of silicone sensitivity should patch-test.
Who should be careful with Polysilicone-22?
Individuals who prefer silicone-free routines or have experienced breakouts from silicones
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.