Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a silicone that gives skin and hair a silky feel, reduces moisture loss and helps products spread easily. Because its molecules are large, it does not penetrate the skin and has very low potential for irritation and allergy. Independent assessments have found it safe in cosmetics; the perception that “silicones are harmful” stems largely from aesthetic preferences and from confusing it with other silicones.
Risk range
1 is the lowest and 10 the highest risk. The range depends on the amount used, whether the product is rinsed off and how it is used. The Temiz İçerik app uses the same ranges.
It is at the lower end for most products; it moves towards the upper end in very heavy formulas on acne-prone skin, or in products that create a feeling of build-up on hair.
What is dimethicone and what is it used for?
Dimethicone is a polymer made by attaching methyl groups to a chain of silicon and oxygen atoms. Depending on the chain length, it can be produced in forms ranging from more fluid than water to as thick as honey.
It forms a thin, breathable film on the skin and hair. This film reduces water loss, fills in unevenness to give the skin a smooth appearance and reduces friction between hair strands, making combing easier. It is also used to reduce the sticky feel of creams and help them spread easily. In some nappy and barrier creams it acts as a skin protectant.
Which products contain it?
- Moisturising creams, lotions and sunscreens
- Foundations, make-up primers and eyeshadows
- Conditioners, hair serums and heat protectants
- Nappy and barrier creams
Is it harmful? The scientific assessment
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel found dimethicone and related silicone polymers safe under current conditions of use in cosmetics. Because its molecules are large, it does not pass through the skin barrier, so no build-up in the body or systemic effect is expected. Cases of irritation and allergy are extremely rare.
Although the claim that “silicone clogs pores” is widespread, the film dimethicone forms is permeable, and it is not typically considered comedogenic itself. On acne-prone skin, the problem usually comes from other heavy oils in the formula or from the product not being cleansed off properly.
On hair, some people feel that dimethicone builds up and weighs hair down when used for a long time together with sulphate-free shampoos. This is a cosmetic issue, not a health problem, and it can be removed with a clarifying shampoo.
Environmentally, dimethicone is a polymer that breaks down poorly; however, the substances at the centre of the debate are small cyclic silicones such as cyclopentasiloxane. Dimethicone is not covered by those restrictions.
Who should be careful?
- People with very acne-prone skin: They can try oil-free, lightweight formulas; it is best to observe the effect product by product.
- People with fine hair that is easily weighed down: They may prefer lightly siliconed products or an occasional clarifying shampoo.
What to do when you see it on a label
Dimethicone is among the lowest-risk ingredients in cosmetics and is a useful ingredient that supports the barrier on dry or sensitive skin. Choosing silicone-free products is entirely a personal choice, not a health necessity. Ingredients such as glycerin and paraffin oil are also used to create a similar protective film.
Frequently asked questions
Does dimethicone clog pores?
Usually not. The film it forms is permeable, and dimethicone is not typically considered comedogenic; for acne problems, you need to look at the formula as a whole.
Does shampoo with silicone damage hair?
It does not harm hair; on the contrary, it can reduce breakage. In some people it can create a heavy feeling over time, which can be removed with a clarifying shampoo.
Are dimethicone and cyclopentasiloxane the same thing?
No. Dimethicone is a large, linear polymer; cyclopentasiloxane is a small, volatile, cyclic silicone that has been restricted in the EU for environmental reasons.
Sources
Updated: 2026-10-11 · How we score
This page is for general information and is not personal medical advice. Warnings on the product label and the advice of a health professional always come first.