The 6 myths about silicone debunked
Silicones are versatile, high-performance materials trusted across a range of industries from personal care to medical and industrial applications. Despite often being misunderstood, these ingredients are prized for their stability, safety, and exceptional ability to enhance product texture, lock in moisture, and provide long-lasting, breathable protection. This article is not a cosmetic advertisement but a fact-based look at the science and benefits behind silicones.
Over the years, silicones have faced criticism, particularly with the rise of natural beauty trends in the 1990s and the growing popularity of “clean beauty.” Misinformation and online rumors have contributed to some misconceptions. However, the truth is that silicones remain widely used, scientifically validated, and proven safe and effective when formulated correctly.
It’s time to separate myths from facts and better understand the real value silicones bring to skincare and haircare.
| Parameters | Myth | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Origin of silicone | Are silicones petroleum derivatives? | Silicones are derived from sand and made up of two very common elements found on Earth: Oxygen and Silicon. They are not petroleum derivatives. |
| Environment | Do silicones break down and can they accumulate in the environment and in living organisms? |
Low molecular weight silicones break down into silicon and carbon dioxide in the soil and air. Higher molecular weight silicones do not tend to bioaccumulate but do not biodegrade. However, they are easy to remove from wastewater due to their low water solubility. |
| Build-up | Can silicones accumulate on the skin and hair? | Silicones can accumulate, but not permanently. They are easily washed away using regular soaps and shampoos. |
| Breathability | Can silicones form a barrier on the skin that can limit its ability to breathe? | Silicones form a water-resistant layer on the skin while still allowing it to breathe, as the barrier is permeable. |
| Toxicity |
Are silicones harmful to the skin?
Are silicones irritating, and allergic?
Are silicones carcinogenic?
|
Commonly used silicones are chemically inert, hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and non-carcinogenic.[1] The silicone that has received a bad reputation is cyclopentasiloxane and similar cyclics due to an EU study on bioaccumulation in the environment. These silicones have an EWG rating of 4. Other silicones such as Dimethicone, PEG-10, PEG-12 dimethicone, and dimethicone crosspolymer all have an EWG rating of 1–2, i.e., low toxicity since they are not carcinogenic, are hypoallergenic, have low reproductive toxicity, and do not have any use restrictions. [2] |
| Clog pores | Can silicones clog pores on the skin or scalp and lead to breakouts? | Silicones are non-comedogenic, meaning they don’t block pores, and their molecules are too large to be absorbed into the skin. |
Silicones are irreplaceable in cosmetics. Their unique combination of smooth texture, lasting hydration, and protective barrier can’t be fully replicated by any other ingredient. While alternatives exist, none matches silicones’ performance, stability, and versatility making them essential for delivering the quality and experience consumers expect.
Explore how Elkay is elevating personal care with advanced silicones!
[1]. Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2021). Amended safety assessment of dimethicone, methicone, and substituted-methicone polymers as used in cosmetics.
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/methic122020revTAR.pdf
[2] Environmental Working Group