Cyclopentasiloxane

What is Cyclopentasiloxane?

Regarded as one of the most widely sought-after cosmetic ingredients, Cyclopentasiloxane is a silicone derivative that is being used for a variety of skin products.

Synthetically manufactured, this chemical has been shown to create a microscopic protective layer that may protect the human skin and hair. Chemically speaking, this synthetic substance is an organic silicon compound that possesses space-filling properties.

Preferred by most cosmetic companies due to its low manufacturing costs, the substance is said to possess valuable properties that enhance the properties of the other ingredients used in the cosmetic product it has been added to.

One to look at

Since its development, Cyclopentasiloxane has become widely used on account of three major reasons:

• Viscosity: This chemical has been found to have low viscosity which means that – since it is not very thick- it does not leave a significant residue on the skin, consequently producing a softer, smoother and much healthier overall sensation.
• Temperature: Since Cyclopentasiloxane does not cool during its evaporation, there is a feeling of wellness associated to its use in cosmetic products, such as body lotions and creams.
• Inherent Properties: Finally, the fact that Cyclopentasoloxane is both odourless and colourless helps to the eventual blending of substances when lab formulas become actual products. These qualities allow for effective mixing with any other ingredient present in the original formula.

Where is Cyclopentasiloxane found?

Since this substance can be used in both small as well as in large quantities, different doses can be found in different products.

In hand and body moisturisers for instance, Cyclopentasiloxane can be found in concentrations of 0.1%. This much is enough to create a feeling of softness and smoothness in the person’s skin. If on the other hand, we take a look at the products containing the largest doses of Cyclopentasiloxane, we will find antiperspirants or hair deep-conditioning products, such as masks. Finally, its compatibility with most other chemical substances makes it a fine match for ethanol, mineral oils and fatty acids. Therefore, its presence in eyeliners, mascara, eye-contour creams and foundations is almost inevitable.

Its Benefits

Several benefits can be mentioned. Some refer to practical issues, such as effective manufacturing processes, while others refer to skin care advantages.

Economically speaking, one of the main pros of using Cyclopentasiloxane is that it has been found to be a cost-effective substitute for more costly compounds.

In addition, because of its chemical composition, this substance is compatible with most other ingredients used in the world of cosmetics, thus making it one of the most easily adaptable substances of all times.

Finally, recent research suggests that, apart from its lubricant properties, Cyclopentasiloxane may have the capacity to treat skin lines or blemishes.

Its Drawbacks

Users must understand that this synthetic substance does not possess the regenerative and exfoliating properties present in vitamin A or E, for example. Similarly, recent studies show that although the product has been found to safe to use, care should be taken if used for long periods, as accumulation can occur.