Common Name(s): Trimethyl pentaphenyl trisiloxane,phenyl trisiloxane,high refractive index silicone
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Creates an extraordinarily glossy, high-refractive-index film in lip products and color cosmetics.
Why It's Used: Five phenyl groups on a trisiloxane backbone provide very high refractive index (~1.54 vs ~1.40 for standard dimethicone) creating exceptional optical gloss in lip products.
How It Works: Five phenyl (aromatic) substituents dramatically increase the refractive index of the silicone; high refractive index creates superior gloss and optical depth in lip products; phenyl groups also improve organic ingredient compatibility.
Typically Found In: High-gloss lip products,premium color cosmetics,high-refractive gloss formulas
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – film former
Secondary Functions: Film forming,emollient,gloss providing
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–15%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Phenyl-modified trisiloxane silicone; synthetic. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: status downgraded on audit. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.
Works Well With: Other high-gloss silicones,organic emollients,castor oil
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Phenyl-modified silicones provide higher refractive index than standard dimethicone due to the aromatic pi-electron system; pentaphenyl trisiloxane represents the most phenyl-rich of the common cosmetic silicones providing maximum gloss.
Last Verified: 2026-03-28
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary