Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day, from Monday to Sunday.
| Catalog Number | CI-HC-0091 |
| Product Name | Dimethicone |
| CAS | 9006-65-9 |
| Structure |  |
| Synonyms | Polydimethylsiloxane Trimethylsiloxy-Terminated |
| Description | Dimethicone is a type of silicone-based polymer that is commonly used in various personal care and cosmetic products. It is an odorless and colorless substance that is used as an emollient, skin protectant, and hair conditioning agent. Dimethicone forms a thin, protective layer on the surface of the skin or hair that helps to lock in moisture and prevent moisture loss. It is often found in products such as moisturizers, lotions, sunscreens, shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. |
| Molecular Formula | C3H9OSi.(C2H6OSi)n.C3H9Si |
| Appearance | clear, odorless, and viscous liquid |
| Application | 1. Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer that is widely used as an active ingredient in skincare products such as moisturizers, sunscreens, and anti-aging creams. 2. It is used as a lubricant and emollient to provide a smooth and creamy texture to creams and lotions. 3. Dimethicone is also used as a conditioning agent in hair care products to make hair appear smoother, shinier, and easier to manage. 4. It is used in wound dressings to provide a moist environment for healing, as well as to protect the wound from infection. 5. Dimethicone is also used as an antifoaming agent in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food products. 6. It is used in the manufacturing of adhesives, sealants, and coatings to improve their durability and resistance to moisture. 7. Dimethicone is also used as a lubricant in industrial applications such as the production of polystyrene foam and the manufacturing of plastic films. |
| Features And Benefits | 1. Provides a smooth and silky feel to the skin. 2. Acts as a skin protectant by forming a barrier on the skin. 3. Helps to enhance the skin's texture and appearance. 4. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 5. Provides hydration to the skin by locking in moisture. 6. Helps to control oiliness on the skin. 7. Can improve the spreadability of cosmetic products. 8. Can enhance the longevity of makeup products. |
Dimethicone, a linear organosilicon polymer, is extensively utilized in numerous personal care products due to its versatile properties. Known for its medium viscosity and transparency, dimethicone is prominently featured in oil-free facial creams, masks, moisturizers, sunscreens, and antiperspirants. It is renowned for reducing transdermal water loss without imparting a greasy feel, while its high permeability to water vapor and oxygen ensures skin respiration. This compound creates a protective, hydrophobic barrier on the skin, enhancing application characteristics by improving spreadability and reducing whitening and foaming during application, while also providing a lubricating and softening effect. Additionally, in hair care, dimethicone functions as a conditioning agent, improving shine and reducing tackiness. It is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin, and has been deemed safe for cosmetic use by experts.
What is Dimethicone and what are its primary uses?
Dimethicone, also known as dimethylpolysiloxane or polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), is a linear organosilicon polymer. It is a medium-viscosity clear liquid extensively used in a wide range of personal care formulations thanks to its beneficial properties, such as low surface tension and high spreading coefficient. It is commonly found in oil-free facial creams, masks, moisturizers, sunscreens, and antiperspirant/deodorant compositions. Dimethicone forms a breathable barrier on the skin, providing both protection and improved spreadability without leaving a greasy feel.
Is Dimethicone safe to use on the skin?
Yes, Dimethicone is considered safe for use in cosmetic formulations. It is recognized for its non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic properties, making it suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed dimethicone as "safe as used in cosmetic formulations."
How does Dimethicone benefit skincare products?
In skincare formulations, Dimethicone acts as an emollient and creates a hydrophobic, yet breathable barrier on the skin. This helps in decreasing transdermal water loss without sealing the skin, thereby maintaining skin respiration. It improves the spreadability of products and reduces whitening and foaming effects during application, while also enhancing lubrication and softness.
Can Dimethicone be beneficial in hair care products?
Yes, Dimethicone is also used in hair care formulations as a conditioning agent. It enhances shine, reduces stickiness, and imparts a smooth and soft texture to the hair, making it a valued ingredient in various hair care products.
What is Simethicone and how is it related to Dimethicone?
Simethicone, also referred to as activated dimethicone, is a combination of PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) and silicon dioxide. It is used as an antifoaming agent and carminative in pediatric practice to decrease gas bubble formation and soothe discomfort in newborns. It shares a common base with dimethicone, but its applications are primarily in medical and healthcare settings.
Does Dimethicone allow the skin to breathe?
Yes, despite forming a protective barrier, Dimethicone has high permeability to water vapor and oxygen, which allows the skin to "breathe." This means it does not seal the skin completely and supports natural skin respiration while providing its protective benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact us. You will get a satisfactory answer.
