Ingredient review
Polysilicone-28
INCI: POLYSILICONE-28
Polysilicone-28 is a gentle film-forming silicone that helps products glide on smoothly and stay put without clogging pores.
In plain English
Polysilicone-28 is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. This film helps makeup last longer, makes sunscreen more water-resistant, and gives a silky, smooth feel. It's lightweight and non-greasy, so it won't feel heavy or sticky. Because it's a large molecule, it sits on the surface rather than sinking in, which means it's unlikely to cause breakouts for most people.
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-28 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-28.
- 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-28 is a synthetic silicone polymer designed to create a breathable, flexible film on the skin or hair. It belongs to the family of film-forming silicones, which are engineered for cosmetic use.
How it works
When applied, Polysilicone-28 spreads into an even, invisible layer that smooths the skin's surface and locks in other ingredients. It also repels water, which is why it's common in water-resistant sunscreens and long-wear makeup. The film is flexible, so it moves with your skin without cracking or flaking.
Pros
Smooth, silky finish
Polysilicone-28 gives a velvety, non-greasy feel that helps makeup and sunscreen apply evenly and feel comfortable on the skin.
Boosts water resistance
It forms a water-repellent film, making it a valuable ingredient in sunscreens and long-wear products that need to stay put in humid conditions.
Cons and cautions
Environmental persistence
Like many silicones, Polysilicone-28 is not readily biodegradable and can accumulate in the environment, which is a concern for eco-conscious consumers.
Slippery feel for some
A few people find the silky, slippery texture of silicones less pleasant, especially if they prefer a matte or 'bare skin' sensation.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- Those with oily or combination skin looking for a non-greasy finish
Use caution if
- Anyone with a known sensitivity to silicones (rare)
- Those seeking fully biodegradable or natural formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polysilicone-28 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on Polysilicone-28 is limited to its function as a film former and water-resistance enhancer. It is not associated with skin sensitization or toxicity in available safety assessments. Most evidence comes from industry and regulatory evaluations rather than independent clinical studies.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Primers, Sunscreens, Long-wear foundations, Hair serums
- Environmental note
- Polysilicone-28 is a synthetic silicone that does not readily biodegrade. Some manufacturers are working on more eco-friendly alternatives, but it remains common in conventional cosmetics.
Good to know
- Polysilicone-28 is often used in combination with other silicones to fine-tune texture and performance.
- It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Common questions
What is Polysilicone-28 in beauty products?
Polysilicone-28 is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. This film helps makeup last longer, makes sunscreen more water-resistant, and gives a silky, smooth feel. It's lightweight and non-greasy, so it won't feel heavy or sticky. Because it's a large molecule, it sits on the surface rather than sinking in, which means it's unlikely to cause breakouts for most people.
What does Polysilicone-28 do in a beauty product?
When applied, Polysilicone-28 spreads into an even, invisible layer that smooths the skin's surface and locks in other ingredients. It also repels water, which is why it's common in water-resistant sunscreens and long-wear makeup. The film is flexible, so it moves with your skin without cracking or flaking.
Is Polysilicone-28 safe for most people?
Polysilicone-28 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Polysilicone-28?
Anyone with a known sensitivity to silicones (rare) Those seeking fully biodegradable or natural formulations
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.