Evigrade
DrugsCosmetic ingredientsCalculatorsInteractionsEvigrade SkinEvigrade Meds ↗
ConditionsJournalMethodologyPro for practitioners
ESRU

Dimethicone

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.

Evidence by route

A

Topical application

FDA approved dimethicone as an OTC skin protectant. Clinical trials confirm TEWL reduction and protection of irritated skin. Non-comedogenic and non-sensitizing.

  • Draelos ZD et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2008;7(4):245. PMID 19146598
  • FDA Monograph 21 CFR 347.
How to read tiers A–F
  • AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential
Low
Allergen risk
Low
Pregnancy
Safe
Suitable for
Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal

About this ingredient

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. The EU has restricted the cyclic silicones D4 and D5 (cyclomethicone, cyclopentasiloxane) in wash-off cosmetics since 2020; in leave-on cosmetics the restriction applies from 6 June 2027. 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).

Frequently asked questions

Is Dimethicone safe during pregnancy?

Dimethicone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.

What skin types is Dimethicone for?

Dimethicone suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.

What is Dimethicone and what does it do in cosmetics?

Silicone polymer that forms a protective film on the skin to lock in moisture.

Is Dimethicone 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 Dimethicone?

The INCI name is Dimethicone. It may also appear as: Polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, dimeticone.

See Dimethicone in a product composition right on the store page

The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni 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.

Install the extension for free

Similar in action

Published: · updated: