Silicone polymer that forms a protective film on the skin to lock in moisture. Gives products a silky texture and does not penetrate the dermis.
Topical application
AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.
FDA approved dimethicone as an OTC skin protectant. Clinical trials confirm TEWL reduction and protection of irritated skin. Non-comedogenic and non-sensitizing.
Dimethicone (polydimethylsiloxane) is a synthetic silicone polymer, a polymer of dimethylsiloxane. One of the most widely used cosmetic ingredients – used as an occlusive, emollient, and aesthetic modifier (provides a "velvet" feel). Where applied. Creams and lotions (1-25%), makeup primers, hair conditioners and styling products, foundations, BB creams, infant diaper-rash products, pharmaceutical anti-flatulence drugs (Espumisan, Gascon). Mechanism. Forms a thin hydrophobic film on the skin – retains moisture (occlusive effect), protects from external irritants. Unlike petrolatum, the film is gas-permeable – the skin does not suffocate. On hair, smooths the cuticle, adds shine, reduces tangling. Evidence base. AAD 2024 recommends dimethicone-containing emollients as first-line for diaper dermatitis. Effective in atopic dermatitis as an occlusive layer on top of moisturizers (Eichenfield 2014). In acne patients: formally non-comedogenic (ESCD 2020), but some patients develop "silicone acne" – silicone accumulates in pores with inadequate cleansing. Safety. CIR/SCCS confirm safety at all concentrations. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating. Topical systemic absorption is zero (the molecule is too large). Not biodegradable, raising environmental discussions (see below). Controversy 2024. EU SCCS published a 2024 report on silicone accumulation (D4, D5, D6 – small cyclic forms) in aquatic environments. Cyclic silicones (cyclomethicone, cyclopentasiloxane) are restricted in EU leave-on products since 2020. Linear silicones (dimethicone) remain unrestricted. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. One of the safest ingredients. Acceptable at any stage including nipple fissures during breastfeeding (Bepanthen Sensiderm). Alternatives for environmentally conscious patients. Squalane (plant-derived, from olive or sugarcane), avocado, rosehip oil, aloe vera gel, isoamyl laurate (a biodegradable silicone analogue).
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Dimethicone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Dimethicone suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
Silicone polymer that forms a protective film on the skin to lock in moisture.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Dimethicone. It may also appear as: Polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, Диметикон.
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Suitable for