Polysilicone-15 ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a synthetic UV filter used mainly for UVB absorption in sunscreens, moisturizers, and makeup with SPF claims. It also adds some film-forming and water-resistance support because of its polymeric silicone structure.
What does Polysilicone-15 do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a synthetic UV filter used mainly for UVB absorption in sunscreens, moisturizers, and makeup with SPF claims. It also adds some film-forming and water-resistance support because of its polymeric silicone structure.
Is Polysilicone-15 clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, this ingredient has friction because it is a synthetic sunscreen filter and silicone-based polymer, even though its larger molecular size is associated with low skin penetration. It is not a common allergen and is generally considered low-irritation when formulated within regulatory limits.
Is Polysilicone-15 sustainable?
This material is synthetically made from silicon-based and petrochemical inputs rather than renewable feedstocks. Its polymeric silicone backbone is not readily biodegradable, so environmental persistence is the main sustainability concern.
Is Polysilicone-15 COSMOS-approved?
This ingredient is not permitted under COSMOS-natural or COSMOS-organic standards. Its synthetic origin, silicone-polymer chemistry, and limited biodegradability make it a poor fit with Green Chemistry preferences for renewable, readily biodegradable materials.
How does Polysilicone-15 work chemically?
The molecule is a high-molecular-weight silicone polymer bearing aromatic malonate UV-absorbing side groups, which helps reduce skin penetration compared with many small-molecule filters. It is approved in the EU as a UV filter up to 10%, is photostable, and is usually paired with UVA filters to build broad-spectrum protection.
Last updated 2026-05-13