In today's beauty industry, a multitude of ingredients are used in skincare products to provide various benefits. Among these ingredients, dimethicone has gained significant popularity for its unique properties and contributions to skin care products.

However, for individuals with sensitive skin, dimethicone may not be the best option. In this blog, we'll delve into what dimethicone is, its common uses, and the reasons why people with sensitive skin should approach it with caution.

What is Dimethicone?

Dimethicone, also known as polydimethylsiloxane, is a silicone-based polymer. It is a synthetic compound derived from silica (a component found in sand) and combined with methyl groups. This results in a smooth, silicone-based substance with exceptional lubricating properties. Due to its silky texture and ability to form a protective barrier on the skin, dimethicone is widely used in various cosmetics and personal care products.

Common Uses of Dimethicone in Skincare

Dimethicone is commonly used in skincare products for several reasons:

1. Moisturization: Dimethicone acts as an emollient, helping to lock in moisture and prevent water loss from the skin. Its occlusive nature creates a protective layer on the skin's surface, reducing the chance of environmental irritants penetrating the skin.

2. Smooth Application: When applied topically, dimethicone imparts a silky and smooth texture to the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for primers, foundations, and other makeup products.

3. Diminishing the Appearance of Fine Lines: Due to its ability to fill in uneven texture and fine lines, dimethicone is often used in anti-aging products to give the skin a more youthful and even appearance.

4. Enhanced Spreadability: Dimethicone improves the spreadability of skincare formulations, ensuring the product glides easily over the skin during application.

5. Non-Comedogenic Properties: Dimethicone is considered non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn't clog pores, making it suitable for people with acne-prone skin.

Why Should People with Sensitive Skin Avoid Dimethicone?

While dimethicone has numerous benefits for many skin types, people with sensitive skin should be cautious when using products containing this ingredient. 

Some of these reasons include:

1. Potential Irritation: Dimethicone is generally considered safe and non-irritating for most people, but those with sensitive skin may experience adverse reactions. Some may develop redness, itching, or a burning sensation after using products with dimethicone.

2. Pore Clogging: Despite being considered non-comedogenic, some individuals may still experience clogged pores and breakouts when using products with dimethicone. This reaction can vary from person to person, as everyone's skin is unique.

3. Barrier Function Disruption: While dimethicone forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, it may interfere with the skin's natural barrier function. For individuals with sensitive skin, this disruption can lead to increased sensitivity and potential long-term issues.

4. Limited Breathability: The occlusive nature of dimethicone can hinder the skin's ability to breathe and may trap heat (something we want to avoid when caring for your skin after the sun or during a rosacea flare-up), potentially leading to discomfort for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

5. Accumulation of Toxins: Some experts raise concerns that frequent and prolonged use of dimethicone might lead to the buildup of toxins on the skin, potentially exacerbating sensitivity issues.

Shopping for new products for your sensitive skin or even switching to natural skincare can seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. If you wish to avoid products containing dimethicone, start by reading skincare labels. In Canada, cosmetic products are regulated by Health Canada, and manufacturers are required to follow specific guidelines for ingredient labeling. The International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) system is commonly used to provide standardized names for cosmetic ingredients, including dimethicone.Under the INCI system, dimethicone is simply listed as "dimethicone."

The next time you are looking at labels on a product, here are some tips to help you identify dimethicone:

1. Read the Ingredient List: Check the product's ingredient list, which is usually found on the packaging or the product's official website. Look for the term "dimethicone" or any of its alternate names (polydimethylsiloxane, dimethylpolysiloxane, dimethylsiloxane polymer, PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane), dimethicone copolyol, dimethiconol, methicone, phenyl trimethicone (a derivative of dimethicone)) in the list.

2. Look for "Silicone-Free" Labels: Some skincare products specifically advertise themselves as "silicone-free" on the packaging or in their marketing materials. If you see this label, it means the product does not contain dimethicone or any other silicone-based ingredients.

3. Avoid Ingredients with "cone" or "siloxane" Suffixes: Dimethicone is part of the "-cone" and "-siloxane" family of ingredients. Be on the lookout for any ingredient names ending with these suffixes, as they often indicate the presence of silicones. For example, "cyclomethicone" and "dimethiconol" are related to dimethicone.

4. Research Brand Claims: Some skincare brands may mention on their website or marketing materials if their products are silicone-free or free from specific ingredients like dimethicone. Do some research or contact the brand directly if you're unsure about a particular product.

5. Use Apps or Online Resources: There are apps and online databases that can help you analyze skincare product ingredients. You can scan the product barcode or enter the ingredient list to get information about the components, including whether dimethicone is present.

Alternatives for People with Sensitive Skin

For individuals with sensitive skin who wish to avoid dimethicone or any silicones, several alternative skincare ingredients and products can be considered:

1. Shea Butter: Shea butter is a rich, nourishing ingredient that helps lock in moisture and protect the skin's barrier. It is often used in creams (like our Soothing Lotion)and balms for dry and sensitive skin.
2. Chamomile Extract: Chamomile is known for its soothing properties and can help reduce redness and irritation in sensitive skin.
3. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel has soothing properties, making it a great option for calming sensitive skin and reducing inflammation. It's one of the reasons why we also included it in our Soothing Lotion.
4. Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is a natural emollient, meaning it helps to seal in moisture and keep the skin hydrated. Found in our Restorative Facial Oil, it forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing water loss and maintaining a soft, supple complexion. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and soothe sensitive or irritated skin. It can be especially beneficial for those dealing with redness or conditions like eczema and rosacea. 

Remember that individual responses to skincare ingredients can vary, and what works well for one person may not work for another. If you decide to avoid dimethicone or any other specific ingredient, it's essential to pay attention to your skin's reactions and adjust your skincare routine accordingly!