Dimethicone

What is Dimethicone?

Also known as polymethylsiloxane, Dimethicone is actually a silicone-based polymer that is being largely used in the manufacturing of cosmetic products of all types.

Chemically speaking, Dimethicone belongs to a group of polymeric organosilicon compounds that are usually addressed to as silicones. Widely known for their greatly-adaptable properties, these substances can be used for a wide array of functions.

These days, Dimethicone can be found in most of the beauty and cosmetic products that are commercially available worldwide. The most outstanding reasons for this popularity are:

  • Dimethicone works as an antifoaming agent and skin and hair protecting agent.
  • It works by moisturising and conditioning skin and hair.
  • It prevents the loss of water thanks to the formation of a hydrating barrier on the skin.
  • It creates a protective film over the skin that ensures lubrication and protection.

Because of these properties, you can now find Dimethicone in almost every sunscreen lotion, anti-ageing serum, body lotion, eye shadow, foundation, conditioner or hair dye.

Dimethicone and its Benefits

Stemming from the aforementioned functions, this substance has become well-known because of its unusual and beneficial uses. According to recent studies, this substance has been found to possess the quality of soothing and protecting human skin, even in people who had been suffering from chronic skin conditions for years. There is evidence that shows that individuals with induced irritated contact dermatitis (ICD) were highly benefitted by using products with Dimethicone content. Further research suggests that such condition can be prevented by the use of products with this substance.

In addition, products containing this chemical have become well-known for creating a subtle gloss that improves the way the skin feels by making it softer, smoother and eventually silkier than usual.

Furthermore, recent studies suggest that products with Dimethicone help to fill in expression lines and mild scarring, thus revealing a filling function that was unknown to this product.

Finally, due to its strong protective barrier, this substance helps to prevent skin infections and more importantly, it is able to keep all kinds of skin optimally moisturised, even during the harshest winters and the worst adverse pollution exposure.

Dimethicone and Its Side Effects

According to the FDA, this substance is safe to use in cosmetic products and pharmaceuticals as well. The claim comes from the affirmation that because the molecular weight of this silicone-based polymer –and any other- is so large, there is a very little chance that any of the substance should travel past the skin surface and let alone be allowed into the person’s bloodstream.

Nonetheless, in some countries, warnings have been raised concerning the substance’s use in pregnant women or in women who were breastfeeding. Since there is still no conclusive study regarding safety in these cases, physicians recommend avoiding the use of Dimethicone-based cosmetics, at least in large quantities.

Similarly, a group of skin specialists suggest that patients who suffer from certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, should check with their physicians first before actually using any cosmetics with a high Dimethicone content.

0 replies

Leave a Comment/Share your Story

Want to join the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *