Polysilicone-15

Polysilicone-15 is a film-forming silicone UV filter/photostabilizer commonly used in leave-on sunscreens and hair products at low percentages, and it is generally considered low in irritancy due to minimal skin penetration. Clinical and post-market data suggest irritation and allergy are uncommon but possible in highly reactive or eczema-prone patients, especially in compromised skin with multiple concurrent actives. Given its low but non-zero potential for stinging or contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals, it fits best as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Polysilicone-15 is a silicone-based UVB absorber/photostabilizer most commonly seen in leave-on suncare and daily moisturizers with SPF, where it is often used at low levels (~0.1–2%) primarily to boost UVB protection and improve film feel. In high-protection consumer sunscreens and SPF cosmetics it can be formulated at substantially higher levels (commonly ~3–7%), with the upper end around ~10% observed in some high-SPF, silicone-heavy systems available OTC; rinse-off products, when it appears, are typically at the low end due to limited benefit and cost.