Cetearyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
AKA “Silicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone Copolymer”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Cetearyl dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer
AKA: Silicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone Copolymer
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Occlusive
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Silicone
Synthetic
Clean
A silky conditioning agent that smooths hair and skin while creating a lightweight, protective layer. Helps improve texture and keeps products from separating.
CAS #
243137-50-0
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Hair Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A complex synthetic crosspolymer blending cetyl and stearyl alcohols, silicones, and vinyl chemistry, developed in the late 20th century. Created to enhance texture, spreadability, and water resistance in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR