How silicone cross-polymer (elastomer) enhances deep hydration
In personal care, people now look for products that give quick hydration, feel light on the skin, and keep it moisturized for longer. Hydrating gels have quickly gained popularity as they deliver a refreshing skin feel without heaviness or greasiness. At Elkay Silicones, we design silicone-based solutions that not only meet these functional needs but also enhance the sensorial and performance attributes of hydrating gel formulations.
Why Hydrating Gels?
Hydrating gels are light, water-based products that quickly absorb into the skin and suit every skin type, including oily and dry skin. Unlike heavy creams, gels provide a cooling effect on application, reduce tackiness, and allow layering with other skincare or makeup products. They are also ideal carriers for actives such as hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and botanical extracts.
A good hydrating gel balances immediate moisturization with moisture retention. Humectants like glycerine and sodium hyaluronate draw water into the skin, while film-formers and silicones lock it in, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
The Role of Silicones
Silicones play a pivotal role in enhancing the performance and sensory profile of hydrating gels. These silicone ingredients bring multiple benefits:
- Moisture barrier support: Silicones form a breathable protective layer, minimizing TEWL while maintaining a non-occlusive feel.
- Velvety, non-greasy skin feel – Silicone elastomers such as Cyclopentasiloxane & Dimethicone Cross polymer provide a silky, powdery after-feel.
- Phase compatibility & stability: PEG-12 Dimethicone acts as a silicone surfactant, improving the dispersion of silicone oils in water-based systems. This will allow to create gels with stable textures and enhanced wash-off resistance.
- Luxurious touch: The right silicones create a silky, premium texture in hydrating gels.
The preparation of hydrating gel
- Aqueous Phase: Glycerine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol for intense hydration.
- Silicone Phase: Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone / Vinyl Dimethicone Cross polymer for silky texture and TEWL prevention.
- Additional Sensory Agents: Lightweight esters and botanical extracts for cooling refreshment.
This synergy results in a gel that absorbs instantly, leaves no sticky residue, and delivers a luxurious touch consumers notice from the first use.
This chart highlights how Elkay Silicones transforms a standard hydrating gel into a high-performance skincare solution. By improving spreadability, smoothness, velvety touch, and absorbance, silicones elevate both consumer perception and product value.
When formulators integrate with Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone / Vinyl Dimethicone Cross polymer (LK-CP 94) and PEG 12 Dimethicone (LK-7300 ), the result is a hydrating gel that not only delivers moisture but also feels luxurious and premium on skin.
Current market trends and the role of hydrating gel
Hydrating gels have broad appeal across personal care categories:
- Daily Facial Moisturizers – Lightweight, quick-absorbing hydration.
- After-Sun Gels – Cooling, soothing formulations with aloe or cucumber.
- Hydrating Primers – Prepping skin for makeup without oiliness.
- Men’s Grooming – Post-shave gels for instant comfort.
Hydrating gels are gaining popularity across skincare and grooming because they are light, fast-absorbing, and refreshing. They work as daily moisturizers, after-sun soothers, hydrating primers, and even post-shave gels for men. Unlike heavy creams, they leave skin soft without greasiness. With silicones like LK-CP 94 and LK-7300, these gels achieve superior texture, stability, and a silky finish. This makes them not only effective but also premium in feel. For brands, it’s the perfect way to meet modern consumer expectations.
At Elkay Silicones, we focus on creating innovative solutions that help brands meet today’s demand for high-quality, sensorial skincare.