emollient
Vinyl Dimethicone
Commonly feared, low concern·Moderate evidence
A silicone with vinyl groups used in long-wear primers and foundations for enhanced adherence and smoothness. It is inert and well tolerated at cosmetic concentrations.
The myth vs the evidence
Like all silicones, it faces fears about clogging pores or preventing skin from breathing. Vinyl dimethicone is inert, rinses off with water, and does not block pores or suffocate the skin.
Products with Vinyl Dimethicone
References
Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.