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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
Dimethicone

Dimethicone

Summary

Dimethicone is a widely used cosmetic ingredient that functions as a skin conditioning agent, emollient, and viscosity controlling agent. It is a silicone-based polymer that forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping to prevent moisture loss and improve skin texture. Dimethicone is non-comedogenic and non-irritating, making it suitable for use in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, sunscreens, and hair care products. Its ability to improve the spreadability and texture of formulations makes it a popular choice among formulators. Overall, dimethicone is a versatile and effective ingredient that can enhance the performance and aesthetics of cosmetic products.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Dimethicone Common Terms: Silicone oil Nicknames: None

Function

Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations as a skin conditioning agent. It acts as a lubricant and emollient, helping to smooth and soften the skin's surface. It also forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping to prevent moisture loss and improve the skin's overall hydration. Dimethicone is often used in skincare products such as moisturizers, serums, and primers, as well as in hair care products to improve manageability and shine.

Science

Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer that is commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products. Its physical properties include a high viscosity, low surface tension, and low volatility. When applied to the skin, dimethicone forms a protective barrier that helps to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from environmental stressors. Its high viscosity also allows it to fill in fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a smoother appearance. Additionally, its low surface tension allows it to spread easily over the skin, providing even coverage. Overall, dimethicone's physical properties make it an effective ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products for improving skin texture and hydration.

Benefits

1. Provides a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. 2. Smooths and softens the skin's texture. 3. Helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 4. Can improve the overall appearance of the skin by creating a more even tone and texture. 5. Non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. 6. Can help to soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. 7. Enhances the effectiveness of other skincare ingredients by helping them to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Negatives

Dimethicone is a commonly used ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be considered. One possible side effect of dimethicone is skin irritation. This can occur in individuals who are sensitive to silicone-based ingredients. Symptoms of skin irritation may include redness, itching, and a rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use of the product containing dimethicone and consult a healthcare professional. Another potential side effect of dimethicone is clogged pores. This can occur if the product containing dimethicone is not properly removed from the skin. This can lead to acne breakouts and other skin issues. To avoid clogged pores, it is important to thoroughly cleanse the skin after using products containing dimethicone. Dimethicone may also interact with other ingredients in skincare and cosmetic products. For example, it may reduce the effectiveness of certain active ingredients, such as retinol or alpha hydroxy acids. It is important to read product labels carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about potential interactions. Overall, dimethicone is a safe and effective ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions to ensure that you are using products that are safe and effective for your skin.

Source

Dimethicone is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from silicone. It is commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products as a moisturizer and emollient. Dimethicone is produced through a chemical reaction between silicon and methyl chloride, resulting in a clear, odorless, and non-greasy liquid. The processing pathway involves purification and distillation to remove impurities and ensure consistency in the final product. Dimethicone is widely used in the beauty industry due to its ability to provide a smooth and silky texture to products, as well as its water-resistant properties.

Safety

Dimethicone has a low safety rating score according to EWG Skin Deep, which rates it as a 1 out of 10 on their hazard scale. This indicates that it is considered to be a low hazard ingredient and is generally safe for use in personal care products. Other sources, such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, have also evaluated dimethicone and determined that it is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 15%. Overall, dimethicone is considered to be a safe and effective ingredient in personal care products.

Sustainability

Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient commonly used in personal care and cosmetic products. While it is generally considered safe for use in these products, its environmental impact is a cause for concern. Dimethicone is not biodegradable, meaning it does not break down naturally in the environment. This can lead to the accumulation of the ingredient in waterways and soil, potentially harming aquatic life and disrupting ecosystems. Additionally, the production of dimethicone requires significant energy and resources, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, it is important to note that dimethicone is a synthetic ingredient and therefore does not have the same concerns around labor practices and human rights as natural ingredients like palm oil or cocoa. However, it is still important for companies to ensure that the production of dimethicone does not involve any unethical practices or exploitation of workers. Overall, while dimethicone is a commonly used ingredient in personal care and cosmetic products, its environmental impact should be taken into consideration. Companies should work to minimize their use of the ingredient and explore more sustainable alternatives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient commonly used in personal care products for its ability to provide a smooth and silky texture. While it has been deemed safe for use in cosmetics by regulatory agencies, some studies suggest that it may have negative environmental impacts. However, it is important to note that dimethicone is not harmful to human health and has several benefits, including its ability to moisturize and protect the skin. It can be sourced from various manufacturers and is widely available in the market. Overall, the use of dimethicone in personal care products should be balanced with considerations for sustainability and environmental impact.

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