Polysilicone-15

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