Silicone is a key cosmetic (synthetic) ingredient known for its lubricating properties and is used across many different formulations from shampoo to makeup, moisturizers, and serums. Dimethicone, a form of silicone, is listed as a skin protectant by the FDA.
Silicone is unreactive and has a really smooth glide, property wise, so it’s a very popular ingredient used in personal care products to enhance texture. Some of the other benefits of silicone include: can prevent transepidermal water loss as an occlusive depending on the design of a formulation, make good moisturizers, help enhance the penetration of active ingredients, and can prolong wear of makeup.
On a product ingredient label, look out for ingredients in the formulation that end in cone, conol, or siloxane, which are all forms of silicone.
Silicones are sustainable. They are derived from sand (silicon dioxide) – the second most abundant mineral on earth. They are also degrade in the environment and break down to sand, carbon dioxide, and water.
Contrary to popular belief, silicones do not clog pores, cause acne or allergic reactions. They are proven to be non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and safe for topical use. They are inert, non-reactive materials.
References:
“Did You Know? Silicones are the Ideal Ingredients for Clean Beauty” Cosmetic & Toiletries. 23 Jan, 2019. https://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/formulating/category/natural/Did-you-know-Silicones-are-the-ideal-ingredients-for-clean-beauty-504751751.html. Accessed 3 April 2020.
Disapio, A; Fridd, P, “Silicones: use of substantive properties on skin and hair.” NCBI, April. 1988. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19456912. Accessed 3 April 2020.
De Paepe, K; Sieg, A; La Meur M; Rogiers, V, “Silicones as nonoculsive topical agents.” NCBI, Jan. 2014. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24457536. Accessed 3 April 2020.