Quick answer
A derivative of the silicone dimethicone; Used as a stabilizer, suspending agent, and thickener; Considered safe as used in cosmetics; Is non-occlusive, meaning it does not “suffocate” skin
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Updated
Siloxanes and silicones, di-Me, crosspolymers with C3-20 alkyl groups
Purpose
Silicone derivative used as thickener, stabilizer, and suspending agent in skin care products. It has been deemed safe as used in cosmetics.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Silicone, Texture Enhancer, Polymer
INCI Purpose
EMULSION STABILISING, HAIR FIXING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
Risks
Alternative Names
Hair Profile
Functions
At a Glance
A derivative of the silicone dimethicone
Used as a stabilizer, suspending agent, and thickener
Considered safe as used in cosmetics
Is non-occlusive, meaning it does not “suffocate” skin
Article
Dimethicone crosspolymer is a silicone derivative used as a stabilizing and suspending agent or as a thickener in skin care products, almost always with pure dimethicone or another type of silicone. In its raw form, dimethicone crosspolymer is a gel.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found dimethicone crosspolymer safe as used in cosmetics, and found that because of its larger molecule size, it does not penetrate skin. In leave-on products, it is used in amounts up to 25%.
In recent years, silicone and its derivatives have been scrutinized amid claims that they “suffocate” skin, leading to clogged pores and increased acne breakouts, yet research hasn’t substantially proven that.
In fact – again because of molecular size and configuration– silicones allow other ingredients to go past skin’s surface, yet they remain on top. Because of their porous nature, silicones are also light and non-occlusive, meaning they provide moisturizing properties without feeling thick or heavy.
See: Silicone, Dimethicone
References