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Ingredient · INCI reference

Cyclopentasiloxane (And) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer

A silicone elastomer gel blend used in cosmetics to impart a silky, powdery skin feel, control viscosity, and improve spreadability in skincare, color cosmetics, and sun care formulations.

Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer

What it is

Cyclopentasiloxane (And) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a pre-dispersed silicone elastomer gel consisting of a three-dimensionally crosslinked dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone network swollen in cyclopentasiloxane (D5) as the carrier solvent. The crosspolymer portion typically comprises 2–15% of the blend, yielding a clear to slightly hazy viscous paste. On application, the volatile cyclopentasiloxane evaporates, depositing a soft, powdery elastomer film that provides slip, blurring of pores and fine lines, and a non-greasy dry-down. The ingredient modifies oil-phase rheology and enhances pigment dispersion in foundations and primers. It is used at 1–100% in anhydrous and W/O systems including sunscreens, eye creams, lipsticks, and hair serums. Incompatible with natural oils at high concentrations.

Safety & warnings

Considered low hazard. The CIR Expert Panel found dimethicone crosspolymers safe as used in cosmetics. EWG Skin Deep rates Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer at hazard score 1 (low). The high molecular weight crosslinked polymer does not penetrate skin. Cyclopentasiloxane (D5), the carrier solvent, is under EU regulatory scrutiny as a persistent, bioaccumulative substance and is restricted in wash-off cosmetics in the EU at ≥0.1%. As the D5 evaporates on application, environmental release is a consideration. No known significant allergenicity or comedogenicity.

Origin & sourcing

Fully synthetic. Dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer is produced by platinum-catalyzed hydrosilylation: vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane chains react with Si-H groups on methylhydrosiloxane copolymers, forming a three-dimensional silicone elastomer network. The crosslinked material is then dispersed in cyclopentasiloxane to create a pourable gel.

History

Silicone elastomer gels were introduced into cosmetics in the 1990s by Shin-Etsu Chemical (KSG series) and Dow Corning (EL-series), enabling formulators to achieve a powdery, non-greasy skin feel without talc or starches. The EU CosIng database lists Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer with skin conditioning and viscosity controlling functions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel assessed dimethicone crosspolymers in 2012 and concluded they are safe as used in cosmetic formulations.

Questions everyone asks

What does this ingredient do in a sunscreen or primer?

It delivers a silky, powdery feel and soft-focus effect upon application. The cyclopentasiloxane carrier spreads the product evenly and then evaporates, leaving the elastomer network on the skin to blur the appearance of pores, control shine, and provide a comfortable dry finish.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It is generally considered well-tolerated and is rated low hazard by EWG. The crosslinked polymer is too large to penetrate skin. People with very sensitive or acneic skin should test individually, as occlusive silicone films may not suit all skin types.

Why is cyclopentasiloxane (D5) used as the carrier?

D5 is a lightweight, volatile cyclic silicone that gives the gel a fluid, easy-to-spread consistency. It evaporates quickly and cleanly after application, leaving no residue and allowing the elastomer to form a smooth film without greasiness.

Are there environmental concerns with this ingredient?

Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) is classified as persistent and potentially bioaccumulative in aquatic environments. The EU restricts D5 in rinse-off cosmetics. In leave-on products, evaporated D5 enters the atmosphere where it degrades; environmental impact is lower but still a consideration when choosing

Sources & references

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