Dimethicone
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INCI Name:
Dimethicone
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Molecular Formula:
(C₂H₆OSi)ₙ
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CAS Number:
9006-65-9
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Alternate Names:
- Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)
- Silicone Fluid
- Cosmetic Grade Dimethicone
- Dimethyl Silicone
- Silicone Oil
Key Benefits:
- Provides a silky, smooth skin feel
- Reduces moisture loss from skin and hair
- Improves hair softness and shine
- Helps reduce frizz and flyaways
- Enhances spreadability of formulations
- Forms a protective, non-greasy barrier
Benefits & Uses (Short):
- Used in creams, lotions, serums, and sunscreens
- Common ingredient in shampoos and conditioners
- Improves slip and sensory feel of formulations
- Helps protect hair from dryness and damage
- Used in makeup and personal care products
Recommended Usage Level:
- Shampoos: 0.2% – 2%
- Conditioners: 0.5% – 5%
- Creams & Lotions: 0.5% – 5%
- Serums: 1% – 10%
- Hair Serums: 2% – 20%
How It Works (Short):
- Functions as a silicone conditioning agent that forms a lightweight protective film on skin and hair
- Helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Improves softness, smoothness, and spreadability
- Reduces friction between hair strands, enhancing combability
- Provides shine and helps control frizz without a heavy feel
- Works well with Amodimethicone, Polyquaternium-7, Cetrimonium Chloride, and conditioning systems
Key Benefits for Skin Care:
- Creates a smooth, velvety skin feel
- Helps lock in moisture
- Improves the texture of creams and lotions
- Reduces the appearance of roughness
- Enhances product application and spreadability
Olfactory Notes:
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Odor Profile: Odorless
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Top Notes: Neutral
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Heart Notes: None
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Base Notes: None
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Character: Clean, non-interfering
FAQs:
Q: What is Dimethicone used for?
A: Dimethicone is used to improve smoothness, conditioning, moisture retention, and product feel in skincare and hair care products.
Q: Is Dimethicone good for hair?
A: Yes, it helps reduce frizz, improves shine, and enhances softness and manageability.
Q: Is Dimethicone used in shampoos?
A: Yes, it is commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums for conditioning benefits.
Q: Does Dimethicone clog pores?
A: Dimethicone is generally considered non-comedogenic and is widely used in facial skincare products.
Q: What is the difference between Dimethicone and Amodimethicone?
A: Dimethicone provides general conditioning and slip, while Amodimethicone selectively deposits on damaged hair for enhanced conditioning and longer-lasting benefits.
