Polysilicone-15

Good

UV filter

Polysilicone-15 at a glance

  • Also known as Parsol SLX and dimethicodiethylbenzalmalonate
  • Absorbs the sun’s UVB rays
  • Not approved yet for sunscreen use in the U.S.
  • Authorized in the EU for use in amounts up to 10%
  • Colorless-to-pale yellow viscous liquid

Polysilicone-15 description

Polysilicone-15, also known as Parsol SLX and dimethicodiethylbenzalmalonate, is a silicone-based UV filter approved for use in the United Kingdom and European Union. Specifically, it absorbs the sun’s UVB rays. Polysilicone-15 has not been approved for use as a sunscreen yet by the United States Food and Drug Administration, which considers sunscreens over-the-counter drugs (in the European Union and UK markets, they are considered cosmetics). In its raw form, polysilicone-15 is a colorless-to-pale yellow viscous liquid. In the EU it is authorized for use in amounts up to 10% in a formula, though typical concentrations in sunscreens only go up to 5%. Since this filter is not broad spectrum, it should always be combined with other filters capable of providing UVA protection.

Polysilicone-15 references

  • CosmeticsInfo, Accessed March 2023, Website
  • UL Prospector, Accessed March 2023, Website
  • Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, July 2011, pages 541–543
  • Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (EU), June 2010, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.