Ingredient review
Polysilicone-31
INCI: Polysilicone-31
Polysilicone-31 is a gentle silicone that creates a smooth, velvety finish on skin without clogging pores, making it a popular choice for primers and long-wear makeup.
In plain English
Polysilicone-31 is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps makeup glide on smoothly, stay in place longer, and gives your skin a soft, velvety feel. It's non-greasy and doesn't absorb into the skin, so it sits on the surface to create a barrier that can also help lock in moisture.
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-31 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-31.
- 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-31 is a synthetic silicone polymer designed to create a smooth, even film on the skin. It belongs to the family of silicone resins, which are known for their lightweight, non-oily texture and ability to improve the feel and performance of cosmetic products.
How it works
When applied, Polysilicone-31 spreads easily and dries down to form a flexible, breathable film on the skin. This film fills in fine lines and pores temporarily, creating a smooth canvas for makeup. It also helps other ingredients adhere better and can improve water resistance in sunscreens and long-wear formulas.
Pros
Smooth, velvety finish
Polysilicone-31 fills in fine lines and pores, giving skin a soft-focus, airbrushed appearance that helps makeup apply evenly.
Improves product longevity
Its film-forming ability helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer, reducing the need for touch-ups throughout the day.
Cons and cautions
Requires double cleansing
Because it forms a film on the skin, Polysilicone-31 may not rinse off with water alone. You may need an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to fully remove it.
Not for silicone-free routines
If you prefer to avoid silicones for personal or environmental reasons, this ingredient won't fit your regimen.
Best for
- People who want a smooth, poreless look under makeup
- Those with oily or combination skin looking for a matte finish
Use caution if
- Individuals who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polysilicone-31 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. As with all silicones, proper removal is recommended to avoid buildup.
Research notes
Safety assessments of silicone polymers, including Polysilicone-31, have been conducted by cosmetic ingredient review panels. They are generally recognized as safe when used as intended. Specific studies on Polysilicone-31 are limited, but its class is well-documented.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. It is not classified as a hazardous substance under normal use conditions.
- Common uses
- Primers, Foundations, Sunscreens, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- Silicones like Polysilicone-31 are synthetic and may persist in the environment. Some consumers choose silicone-free alternatives for this reason.
Good to know
- Polysilicone-31 is considered non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types.
- It is often used in primers and long-wear foundations to improve texture and durability.
Common questions
What is Polysilicone-31 in beauty products?
Polysilicone-31 is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps makeup glide on smoothly, stay in place longer, and gives your skin a soft, velvety feel. It's non-greasy and doesn't absorb into the skin, so it sits on the surface to create a barrier that can also help lock in moisture.
What does Polysilicone-31 do in a beauty product?
When applied, Polysilicone-31 spreads easily and dries down to form a flexible, breathable film on the skin. This film fills in fine lines and pores temporarily, creating a smooth canvas for makeup. It also helps other ingredients adhere better and can improve water resistance in sunscreens and long-wear formulas.
Is Polysilicone-31 safe for most people?
Polysilicone-31 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. As with all silicones, proper removal is recommended to avoid buildup.
Who should be careful with Polysilicone-31?
Individuals who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare routine
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.