What it is
This is a crosslinked silicone network supplied as a fine elastomeric powder. In a formula it absorbs excess sebum and oils and fills fine surface irregularities, which softens shine and gives a smooth, velvety, soft-focus finish. It is widely used to refine the skin feel of mineral and chemical sunscreens.
Safety & warnings
Silicone elastomers like this are large, inert particles that sit on the skin surface and are generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, made by crosslinking silicone (dimethicone/methicone) units into an insoluble silsesquioxane resin network.
Questions everyone asks
What does this silicone powder do in sunscreen?
It absorbs oil and blurs the look of pores and fine lines, giving the product a smooth, dry, soft-focus finish.
Is it the same as silicone oil?
No. It is a solid, crosslinked silicone powder rather than a fluid, so it gives a dry, powdery slip rather than a slippery one.