Polysilicone-10 — INCI reference

What it is

Polysilicone-10 is a member of the polysilicone family—synthetic organosilicon polymers built from repeating siloxane (silicon-oxygen) backbone units. In its cosmetic roles it acts primarily as an antifoaming agent, disrupting air bubbles that can form during mixing or application, and as a hair conditioner, coating the hair shaft to reduce friction and add smoothness. Like other numbered polysilicones, it is a silicone elastomer or oligomer whose properties arise from the characteristic flexibility and low surface energy of the Si-O backbone. Polysilicones are generally non-volatile, odourless, and chemically stable across a wide pH range, making them compatible with diverse formulation types. The ingredient is used at low concentrations and does not contribute fragrance or color.

Safety & warnings

Silicone polymers as a class are generally considered to have low toxicity and low skin sensitization potential. No specific safety concerns have been identified for Polysilicone-10 in published CIR or SCCS assessments. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has assessed related polysilicone ingredients and found them safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic formulations at typical use concentrations. Individuals with silicone sensitivities should exercise caution, though such reactions are rare.

Origin & sourcing

Polysilicone-10 is synthesized from petrochemically derived silicon monomers through polymerization processes typical of the silicone industry, involving chlorosilane intermediates and controlled hydrolysis-condensation reactions. No naturally occurring source is known; the ingredient is entirely synthetic.

History

The polysilicone series of INCI ingredients was assigned sequential numbers by the Personal Care Products Council (formerly CTFA) as part of the INCI nomenclature conventions for complex polymeric silicone materials where systematic chemical naming is impractical. Polysilicone-10 is listed in the EU CosIng cosmetic ingredient inventory with antifoaming and hair conditioning functions.

Questions everyone asks

What does Polysilicone-10 do in a cosmetic formula?

It serves two main roles: it reduces or prevents foam from forming in the product (antifoaming), and it conditions hair by coating the shaft to reduce friction and improve manageability.

Is Polysilicone-10 safe for daily use?

Polysilicone-10 belongs to the well-studied silicone family, which the CIR Expert Panel has broadly assessed as safe for cosmetic use. No specific hazards have been identified for this ingredient at cosmetic use levels.

How is Polysilicone-10 different from dimethicone?

Both are silicone-based, but Polysilicone-10 is a numbered INCI designation for a specific polymer or copolymer structure distinct from the linear polydimethylsiloxane (dimethicone). Polysilicone-10 is assigned its number because its complexity precludes a straightforward systematic INCI name.

In what types of products is Polysilicone-10 used?

Based on its listed functions, it is most likely used in hair care products such as conditioners, shampoos, and styling formulations, as well as in any cosmetic where foam suppression during manufacturing or use is beneficial.