Cyclomethicone
Volatile silicone that evaporates quickly from the skin surface, leaving a smooth, non-greasy film. Used as a solvent and carrier for active ingredients.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A formulation aid. CIR confirmed safety in cosmetic use. In the EU, D4 and D5 have been restricted to below 0.1% in wash-off cosmetics since 2020, and from 6 June 2027 the restriction on D4, D5 and D6 extends to all other cosmetics (Regulation (EU) 2024/1328).
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Int J Toxicol. 2011;30(Suppl 5):149S-227S.
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Cyclomethicone (INCI Cyclopentasiloxane) is a cyclic volatile silicone. It evaporates from the skin surface quickly, leaving a smooth, non-greasy, silky feel. One of the main silicones in color cosmetics and hair products. Mechanism. After application the molecule evaporates within 2-5 minutes, which helps distribute pigments, actives, and other silicones on skin and hair. Does not form a long-lasting occlusive film. In formulas it works as a solvent, carrier, and sensory enhancer. Where applied. Primers, foundations, eye products, light-texture creams, hair products (serums, sprays, heat protection), antiperspirants. In Spain – mass-market decorative lines L'Oréal, Maybelline, Bourjois, hair products Garnier Fructis, Pantene. Evidence base. A functional component with many years of use. Sensory and product distribution effect confirmed in standard tests. No allergies or comedogenicity. Safety and regulatory limits. CIR confirmed Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) safe in cosmetic use. ECHA in 2018 listed D4 (cyclotetrasiloxane) as SVHC (substance of very high concern) due to environmental persistence and bioaccumulation; in the EU, D4 and D5 have been limited to 0.1% in wash-off cosmetics since 2020 and D6 since 6 June 2026, and in leave-on cosmetics D4, D5 and D6 will be limited from 6 June 2027 (Regulation (EU) 2024/1328). This doesn't affect skin safety – the restriction is environmental. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is low; no embryotoxicity identified. Best suited to: any skin and hair type. Almost a standard in color cosmetics. Alternatives in 'clean' lines: light esters (dicaprylyl carbonate, diethoxyethyl succinate, diheptyl succinate).
Frequently asked questions
Is Cyclomethicone safe during pregnancy?
Cyclomethicone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Cyclomethicone for?
Cyclomethicone suits: oily, combination, normal.
What is Cyclomethicone and what does it do in cosmetics?
Volatile silicone that evaporates quickly from the skin surface, leaving a smooth, non-greasy film.
Is Cyclomethicone comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Cyclomethicone?
The INCI name is Cyclopentasiloxane. It may also appear as: Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclotetrasiloxane, D4.
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