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Polysilicone-15 – UV Filter in Sunscreen

Polysilicone-15 is a synthetic UV filter used in sunscreens that absorbs UVB radiation, protecting the skin from sunburn and UV-induced damage.

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Things worth knowing about "Polysilicone-15"

Polysilicone-15 is a synthetic UV filter used in sunscreens that absorbs UVB radiation, protecting the skin from sunburn and UV-induced damage.

What is Polysilicone-15?

Polysilicone-15 (commonly known by the trade name Parsol SLX) is a synthetic, silicone-based UV filter ingredient primarily used in sunscreens, daily moisturizers with SPF, and makeup products offering sun protection. It is a silicone polymer incorporating the UV-absorbing compound dimethicodiethylbenzalmalonate, which effectively absorbs UVB radiation.

Mechanism of Action

Polysilicone-15 belongs to the category of chemical (organic) UV filters. It absorbs high-energy UVB radiation in the wavelength range of approximately 280 to 320 nanometers and converts it into harmless heat energy that is released into the environment. This prevents UV rays from penetrating deeper layers of the skin, where they could cause DNA damage, cellular changes, or sunburn.

Because the active compound is embedded within a silicone matrix, Polysilicone-15 exhibits outstanding photostability -- meaning it degrades very slowly under sun exposure and maintains its protective efficacy over extended periods. In addition, the ingredient is water-insoluble, making it well-suited for water-resistant formulations.

Use in Cosmetic Products

Polysilicone-15 is found in a wide range of sun care and cosmetic products, including:

Sunscreen creams and lotions
Daily moisturizers with SPF
Foundations and BB creams with sun protection
Lip care products with UV protection
After-sun products

In the European Union, Polysilicone-15 is an approved UV filter in cosmetic products, listed in Annex VI of EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. The maximum permitted concentration in finished products is 10%.

Benefits and Properties

Compared to other chemical UV filters, Polysilicone-15 offers several notable advantages:

High photostability: The ingredient remains stable under UV irradiation, losing its protective effect only very slowly over time.
Water resistance: Its water-insoluble nature makes it ideal for water-resistant sunscreen products.
Skin compatibility: Polysilicone-15 is considered well-tolerated and suitable for sensitive skin types.
Sensory properties: The silicone base imparts a pleasant, soft skin feel to finished formulations.
Low systemic absorption: Due to its high-molecular-weight polymer structure, Polysilicone-15 is barely absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream.

Safety and Tolerability

According to current scientific evidence, Polysilicone-15 is considered safe for use in cosmetic products. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Commission has assessed this ingredient as safe when used at approved concentrations. Allergic reactions are rare; however, individuals with known sensitivities to chemical UV filters should consult a dermatologist before use.

Unlike some other chemical UV filters such as oxybenzone or octinoxate, Polysilicone-15 is not currently suspected of having endocrine-disrupting activity or causing harm to coral reefs, making it a more favorable option from an environmental health perspective.

Difference Between Chemical and Mineral UV Filters

UV filters in sunscreens are generally divided into two categories:

Chemical (organic) UV filters such as Polysilicone-15 absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat energy.
Mineral (physical) UV filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide reflect and scatter UV radiation at the skin surface.

Polysilicone-15 clearly belongs to the first category and is frequently combined with other UV filters to provide the broadest possible protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.

References

Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS): Opinion on Polysilicone-15 (Parsol SLX). European Commission, SCCS/1464/11 (2011).
Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council on cosmetic products, Annex VI: List of UV filters allowed in cosmetic products.
Lautenschlager S, Wulf HC, Pittelkow MR: Photoprotection. Lancet. 2007;370(9586):528-537.

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