Dimethicone

Dimethicone, a silicone-based emollient, imparts a silky and smooth texture to skincare products. It creates a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and promoting a velvety feel upon application.

Dimethicone is often used in cosmetic products designed for the face, such as creams, foundations, lotions, moisturizers, and primers, as it smooths skin's texture, locks in hydration, and boosts the longevity of the formula.

Benefits

Creates a silky feel: Waldorf says the main reason silicones (including dimethicone) are used in skin care products is for their sensory properties. They provide a silky smooth finish to topical night creamsand lotions, allowing a product to have a light texture and non-greasy feel that spreads quickly and easily.

• Seals hydration: Waldorf also says dimethicone has occlusive characteristics, which can seal in hydration and keep out external moisture and irritants by forming a water-resistant film on the skin. Weinstein adds that it forms a barrier on the skin that protects against transepidermal water loss, which can lead to inflammatory conditions.

• Won't cause breakouts: Waldorf argues that despite it being occlusive, dimethicone is non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic. Because of these traits, it's commonly used in oil-free formulations to give long-lasting moisturization without clogging the pores.

• Controls shine: Weinstein says it is often used in cosmetic products designed for the face because it allows sweat to evaporate but controls the shine of an oily complexion.

• Protects the skin: It acts as a skin protectant against outside moisture and irritants (like other ingredients) that can cause dermatitis.1

• Smooths texture: Weinstein says it can fill in fine lines or wrinkles on the face that contribute to the texture of your skin and create a smooth surface for a more even makeup application, which is why it's often found in primers.

• Has a matte finish: The smooth and slightly mattified finish of dimethicone makes it a great ingredient to smooth on during your pre-makeup routine.

• Has emollient characteristics: As an emollient, dimethicone works to soften and soothe the skin, but with a lighter, less greasy finish than other ingredients.2