Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Divinyldisiloxane, also known as 1,1,3,3-Tetramethyl-1,3-divinyldisiloxane, 1,3-Divinyltetramethyldisiloxane, DVDS, ethenyl-[ethenyl(dimethyl)silyl]oxy-dimethylsilane, ethenyl[(ethenyldimethylsilyl)oxy]dimethylsilane, or Tetramethyldivinyldisiloxane, is a synthetic ingredient used in the cosmetic industry. It is a type of silicone, a class of materials known for their versatility and resilience. Silicones are derived from silica, a natural component of sand and quartz, but undergo extensive chemical modifications to become the ingredients we see in our products.
The history of Divinyldisiloxane in cosmetics is relatively recent, as it was only in the latter half of the 20th century that silicones began to be widely used in personal care products. The unique properties of silicones, such as their ability to form breathable barriers on the skin and their resistance to water and air, made them an attractive addition to many formulations.
The production of Divinyldisiloxane involves a series of chemical reactions. It starts with the reaction of silicon with methyl chloride, producing a range of chlorosilanes. These chlorosilanes are then hydrolyzed and condensed to form a siloxane polymer. The polymer is then reacted with vinyl groups to produce Divinyldisiloxane. This complex process is carried out under controlled conditions in industrial settings.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Divinyldisiloxane:
Divinyldisiloxane is officially recognized as a chelating agent in cosmetic products. But what does this mean? In simple terms, a chelating agent is a substance that can form several bonds with a single metal ion. In the context of cosmetics, this means that Divinyldisiloxane can bind to metal ions that may be present in the product, preventing them from affecting the stability and effectiveness of the product. This is particularly important in products that are stored for long periods, as it helps to maintain their quality and extend their shelf life.
Furthermore, by binding to these metal ions, Divinyldisiloxane can also prevent them from interacting with other ingredients in the product. This is crucial as such interactions can sometimes lead to unwanted changes in the product, such as discoloration or changes in texture. Therefore, the use of Divinyldisiloxane can help to ensure that the product remains as intended, providing a consistent experience for the user.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Divinyldisiloxane is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for everyone. Its allergenic potential is low, but individuals with sensitive skin or allergies may experience irritation or an allergic reaction.
Potential side effects of topical application of Divinyldisiloxane include:
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, there is currently a lack of data on the safety of topical use of Divinyldisiloxane during pregnancy or while nursing. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Divinyldisiloxane are not common, but they can occur. It is always a good idea to perform a patch test before using a new product containing this ingredient widely. Apply a small amount of the product to a patch of skin on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.
As for its comedogenicity, Divinyldisiloxane is rated 0 on a scale of 0 to 5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and should not clog pores or contribute to acne or breakouts. This makes it suitable for individuals with acne-prone skin, but as always, individual reactions can vary.
