Dimethiconol

Dimethiconol at a Glance

• Skin-conditioning emollient that helps preserve hydration
• Enhances formulary texture for more elegant aesthetics
• Also used in hair care products as a conditioning agent
• Deemed a safe cosmetic ingredient by the CIR Expert Panel

Dimethiconol Description

Dimethiconol is a silicone-based liquid polymer that works as a skin-conditioning agent (emollient) and antifoaming agent in cosmetic formulas. It multitasks by helping lubricate skin’s surface (without feeling greasy) to enhance hydration, while modifying the formula’s texture for a more pleasant consistency.

It can also be used in hair care products as a conditioning agent and is sometimes included in hair dyes to help the color resist wash out.

Dimethiconol is often combined with other compounds and molecules to form derivatives such as dimethiconol arginine, dimethiconol beeswax, dimethiconol cysteine, and dimethiconol meadowfoamate—each with their own distinctive properties and functions.

In 2017, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel analyzed relevant data regarding dimethiconol and concluded it is a safe cosmetic ingredient. Their report looked at personal care products containing amounts between 0.004-36%.

Dimethiconol References