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Polymethylsilsesquioxane

What Polymethylsilsesquioxane is & what it does

A spherical silicone powder that gives a soft-focus, blurring effect and a smooth, dry slip. It reduces shine and improves the feel of the formula.

What is Polymethylsilsesquioxane and what does it do in sunscreen?

Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a spherical silicone powder used mainly to mattify and blur. It gives a soft-focus effect, reduces shine, and adds a smooth, dry slip to the formula. In sunscreen it improves the finish and feel, helping the product sit comfortably without looking greasy.

Is Polymethylsilsesquioxane safe?

Yes. It is an inert silicone powder considered safe and non-irritating for use on skin. It stays on the surface and does not react with skin, which is why it is widely used in primers, foundations, and sunscreens. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well.

Does Polymethylsilsesquioxane clog pores?

Generally no. As a dry silicone powder it is not considered comedogenic and is often chosen specifically for oily or shine-prone skin. It absorbs surface oil and adds slip rather than leaving an occlusive film. It is an unlikely cause of clogged pores for most people.

What is Polymethylsilsesquioxane on an ingredient list (INCI)?

Polymethylsilsesquioxane is the full INCI name, and it usually appears spelled out that way. It is a cross-linked silicone resin formed into tiny spheres, which is what creates the blurring and mattifying effect. You will typically find it among the powders and texture agents on the list.

Is Polymethylsilsesquioxane natural or synthetic?

It is synthetic. Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a lab-made silicone powder rather than a plant- or mineral-derived ingredient. That is normal for silicone resins of this type, and the synthetic origin gives the consistent, fine spherical particles that produce its soft-focus finish.

Sunscreens with Polymethylsilsesquioxane

We rate 884 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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