What Are Silicones?
Silicones are synthetic polymers that contain silicon, oxygen, and other elements, including carbon and hydrogen. From skin care to hair care, silicones are used in a wide range of cosmetic products. The most common types of silicones are:
Cyclopentasiloxane Cyclohexasiloxane Dimethicone Cetearyl methicone
Wondering what silicone does in skin care products? Read the next section to find out!
Why Are Silicones Used In Skin Care Products?
Silicones improve the texture and feel of a product. They are often used in beauty products to give them a non-sticky, matte, and non-oily finish and make them sweat and water-proof. Silicones don’t penetrate the skin but form a barrier to prevent moisture loss and lock in the products. That is why they are widely used in primers and liquid foundations. Silicones also fill in wrinkles and fine lines to make the skin appear smoother and are fantastic for leave-on skin care products. Silicones have a variety of benefits for the skin that you may not be aware of. Keep scrolling to find out.
Benefits Of Silicone For The Skin
1. May Heal Wounds and Improve Scarring
Topical silicone gel products promote wound healing and improve the appearance of scars (1). Products like silicone gel, sheets, and ointments are commonly used in hospitals to repair damaged skin tissues and promote collagen formation. They protect wounds against excessive moisture, dryness, and infections to prevent scarring. and minimize wound redness.
2. May Improve The Skin Texture
Dimethicone, a type of silicone, is commonly used in cosmetics and skin care products like creams and serums to make the skin feel silky smooth, soft, and mattified. It also helps fill the pores and fine lines, efficiently smoothing the skin’s texture.
3. May Protect Your Skin
As per the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), dimethicone is a safe skin care component that reduces irritation and redness and protects the skin from additional harm (2). It is also used as a moisturizer, preventing moisture loss and improving the skin’s appearance, giving it a hydrated and plump look. If you are wondering how to use silicones for your skin, here is the answer.
How To Use Silicone For Skin
Prescription silicone products are available for use on scars. Silicone is also found in various skin care products like moisturizers, serums, primers, and sunscreens. You can buy products with silicones and use them as per the instructions. In the next sections, we have answered some common queries that you may have regarding silicones.
Is Silicone Good Or Bad For Your Skin?
Silicones do not offer long-term improvement unless you are using them for wound healing. Topical silicones do not damage the skin and may offer temporary benefits by making it feel smoother and softer.
Does Silicone Cause Acne?
No. Silicones are classified as non-comedogenic, meaning they cannot clog the pores. However, people with acne-prone and oily skin types are advised to avoid silicone-based products. If you do not cleanse them properly, silicone residue may trap dirt and oil and aggravate acne. Silicone may not cause acne on its own, but improper usage may trigger breakouts. Hence, it is important to remove your makeup and cleanse your skin twice a day to prevent this. Silicone may also trigger allergic reactions. The next section explores the side effects in detail.
Side Effects Of Silicone On The Skin
Silicone may trigger allergic reactions and cause side effects like:
Irritation Dryness Inflammation Swelling Burning Itching Redness
If you notice these symptoms, discontinue using the product and consult a doctor. Is glycerin the same as silicone? No, there is a fundamental difference between silicone and glycerin. Silicone is a synthetic compound made of silica, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. Glycerin is a natural compound derived from animal fats or vegetable oils. How long does silicone gel take to work? A silicone gel may take between 2 to 3 weeks to heal the scars. Can you reuse silicone sheets? Yes, you can reuse silicone sheets. Ensure that you wash them every day before you apply them.
