Silicones

What is Silicone?
Many of you have asked about the derivation of silicone fluids. Silicone fluids are actually polymers (a compound with high molecular weight consisting of a number of structural units linked together by covalent bonds, may polymers occur in nature, such as silk, cellulose, and proteins) in which atoms of silicon (silicon is a nonmetallic element, located directly below carbon and above germanium in the period table of elements) and oxygen alternate in a chain. Silicones, which are unusually stable at extreme temperatures (both high and low), may occur as liquids, rubbers, resins, or greases. Silicones are prepared from halides of organic silicon (silicon is found in many plants and animals, is widely used in production of clays, bricks, pottery, tile and ceramics, and is the most abundant element on earth) compounds by decomposition. Such compounds are chosen and used in mixtures that allow the desired molecular weight and degree of cross-linking to be obtained in the final polymer.

Why use Silicones in cosmetics?
Silicones improve the aesthetic of cosmetic preparations as well as their performance. By forming a breathable protective barrier on the skin, silicones help skin retain moisture, keep actives in place, and somewhat protect the skin from the environment. The following is excerpted from The Dermatology Times article titled ‘Silicones in Cosmetics’: "“Ingredients such as Dimethicone, Amodimethicone, and Cyclomethicone are rapidly being incorporated into so-called oil-free facial moisturizers and foundations to replace the more occlusive types of oils, and the benefits they offer have been revolutionary,” said Dr. Draelos. “The silicone-based derivatives cause minimal irritation, are hypoallergenic, and are neither comedogenic nor acnegenic. Furthermore, their use is associated with a better cosmetic appearance because they don’t leave the face with a greasy shine, and they can help smooth down the scale around acne lesions as well".


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