Polymethylsilsequioxane ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a texture and optical-modifying powder used to improve slip, reduce tack, blur the look of pores, and add a soft-focus finish. It can also help film feel in primers, foundations, sunscreens, and powders.
What does Polymethylsilsequioxane do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a texture and optical-modifying powder used to improve slip, reduce tack, blur the look of pores, and add a soft-focus finish. It can also help film feel in primers, foundations, sunscreens, and powders.
Is Polymethylsilsequioxane clean?
It is generally inert on skin and has low irritation potential, but clean frameworks often scrutinize it because it is a non-biodegradable synthetic polymer. It may face restricted-list friction where brands limit persistent polymers or solid microplastic-type particles.
Is Polymethylsilsequioxane sustainable?
This material is synthetically made from mineral-derived silicon chemistry and organic methyl chemistry, rather than from renewable feedstocks. It is not readily biodegradable and is expected to persist as a stable particulate in the environment.
Is Polymethylsilsequioxane COSMOS-approved?
It is not permitted under COSMOS-natural or COSMOS-organic standards as a standard cosmetic ingredient. Its Green Chemistry fit is weak because of synthetic feedstocks and poor biodegradability, even though it is chemically inert in finished formulas.
How does Polymethylsilsequioxane work chemically?
The molecule is a cross-linked silicon-oxygen network bearing methyl groups, commonly supplied as porous or spherical particles that scatter light and create a dry, silky feel. Typical use is often around 1 to 10% in complexion products and primers, and it is insoluble in water, stable across normal cosmetic pH, and mainly requires good dispersion rather than pH control.
Last updated 2026-05-13