M. Many people believe that because silicones create a barrier on the skin, they must suffocate it, and clog pores. Reviews are NOT sponsored or compensated. Perry has been formulating cosmetic products and inventing solutions to solve consumer problems since the early 1990’s. They act as a carrier for in-soluble mineral pigments, which provide color and coverage to complexion products. Instead, they help ensure the even application of other ingredients and leave behind a silky, almost imperceptible feel that noticeably enhances skin’s texture and appearance; without irritation. Almost all of the claims about silicones being problematic for skin are apparently myths or based on anecdotal evidence. Silicon wasn’t identified as an element until 1824 when Jí¶ns Jacob Berzelius isolated it. Because of silicone’s unique molecular properties, they are at the same time porous and resistant though not impermeable to air. As mentioned above, this ingredient helps the skin to retain moisture better. google_ad_slot = "2204050025"; Everything You Need to Know about Hyaluronic Acid. Protective barrier  Mojsiewicz-Pieńkowska, K et al., 2016. This is why silicones are not considered to be allergens. Polymethylsilsesquioxane functions as a film-forming agent by forming an invisible film on the surface of the skin. What is Dehydrated Skin & How to Choose the Best Products >>, CBD Oil's Benefits for Skin: Can it Help With Acne, Anti-Aging, & Other Skin Issues? These silicone waxes are solids that affect the rheology of the formulation; they increase the viscosity of the sunscreen film on the skin so that it has a greater tendency to stay in place. They are non-toxic and very friendly for skin. Silicone elastomer gels can also be used in other colour cosmetics such as lipsticks and all types of foundation. 275-284. If you use long wearing or waterproof makeup, chances are  that it contains silicones too because silicone repels water and sweat. It’s time to stop repeating fear-mongering, hyperbole, and conjecture. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Additionally, he has written and edited numerous articles and books, taught continuing education classes for industry scientists, and developed successful websites. THOSE RELATIONSHIPS MAY AFFECT HOW WE REVIEW AND RANK PRODUCTS OR SERVICES MENTIONED ON THE SITE. Polymethylsilsesquioxane is also frequently used in anti-aging skin care products. Silicone elastomers can be added and dispersed into either the silicone phase or oil phase … This is because water and chemicals contained in the water (acids, bases, dissolved oxygen, and metal ions) are often responsible for the degradation of the actives. How do we know that silicones don’t suffocate skin? This property is useful for the formulation of sun protection products. They are non-toxic and very friendly for skin. Silicones have revolutionized the application and longevity of most makeup products, including foundation, eyeshadows, blushes, and liquid and pencil eyeliners. By keeping the skin moisturized, fine lines and wrinkles are less likely to form. Cosmetic-grade silicone causes allergic reactions, is a skin iritant,  and clogs pores. Required fields are marked *. Such treatments represent a large part of the skin care market and utilize a variety of active ingredients. Ultimately, this leads to skin that looks and feels hydrated and smooth. Most silicones can be identified by the end of their name. When it comes to our hair, silicones are conditioning workhorses. These types of cosmetic silicones are effective, inert, and versatile ingredients that benefit skin and hair in numerous ways. I’d like to thank the people at Xiameter Silicones for help in making this video. They can also be used in lipsticks to provide long-lasting color with greatly reduced transfer properties. His latest book is Beginning Cosmetic Chemistry 3rd Edition published by Allured. Silicones remain on the surface of your skin and the other ingredients it’s mixed with “steep” through. Cosmetic-grade silicone is a health hazard when inhaled. Even the lips are not immune to silicone’s charms. ABOUT AUTHOR: Silicones are a skincare ingredient used to improve the texture and the appearance of your skin. An easily absorbed carrier fluid can carry highly micronized, insoluble ingredients into the pores, and enlarge or clog them. ) The unique fluid properties of silicone give it a great deal of slip, and in its various forms it can feel like silk on skin, impart emollience, and be a water-binding agent that holds up well, even when skin becomes wet. Keep an eye on:Nothing to keep an eye on here. In hair products, silicone is commonly found in hair serums and conditioners. These ingredients act as silky moisturizers, conditioners, solvents, and delivery agents for other skin care ingredients. Common forms of silicone are cyclopentasiloxane and cyclohexasiloxane; other forms include various types of dimethicone and phenyl trimethicone. In the beauty world, Dimethicone is commonly used in primers and liquid foundations because it fills up imperfections in the skin and creates a smooth canvas for the foundation to go on. //-->