Ingredient guide ›

Dimethicone

The silky smoother.

What it does

A silicone that helps products glide on and leaves skin and hair feeling smooth.

Good to know

One of the most widely used silicones. It forms a light layer that helps protect skin and hold in moisture.

Often found in: Shampoos, Anti-dandruff shampoos, Hand creams

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: Listed in the Poisons Standard as not needing any controls. Source

Sources

• Safety and efficacy of a 100% dimethicone lotion in school-age children (BMC Pediatr, 2015) (Independent)
• CIR: Final report on dimethicone and related silicones (2003) (Industry-funded)