Dimethicone

Category: Silicone, Emollient, Skin Protectant
Used in: Skincare, lip balms, sunscreen, makeup

INCI

Dimethicone

Typical Usage Levels

• 0.5% – 2% for skin smoothing and lightweight hydration
  
• 2% – 5% for barrier repair, moisture loss prevention, and sensitive skin support
  
• Up to 30% in specific OTC skin-protectant products, as recognized by the U.S. FDA
  

Dimethicone at a Glance

• Non-volatile silicone widely used as an emollient
  
• Recognized by the U.S. FDA as a skin protectant (1–30%)
  
• Forms a breathable barrier that reduces moisture loss
  
• Provides a silky, smooth finish without heaviness
  
• Commonly used in oil-free moisturizers, serums, lip balms and sunscreens
  

What This Ingredient Does

Dimethicone is a non-volatile, linear silicone known for its excellent skin-protective and smoothing properties. In skincare, it forms a lightweight, air-permeable barrier over the skin’s surface that helps reduce transepidermal water loss while maintaining skin comfort.

Unlike heavy occlusives, dimethicone allows normal skin functions to continue while preventing excessive dehydration. This makes it especially useful for irritated, over-treated, or barrier-compromised skin.

Dimethicone is also widely used in sunscreen formulations, where it helps evenly disperse UV filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, improving application and uniformity of protection.

Benefits

• Helps prevent moisture loss
  
• Improves skin softness and smoothness
  
• Supports and protects the skin barrier
  
• Enhances product spread and sensory feel
  
• Well suited for sensitive and post-procedure skin
  

Who It’s Suitable For

• All skin types
  
• Dehydrated or barrier-compromised skin
  
• Sensitive or reactive skin
  
• Oily and acne-prone skin seeking non-greasy hydration
  

Things to Know

Dimethicone is often misunderstood due to its silicone origin. In reality, it is non-comedogenic and has a long history of safe use in dermatology.

It does not block pores or interfere with normal skin function. Instead, it helps protect the skin’s surface while maintaining barrier and hydration, making it a common ingredient in dermatologist-recommended formulations.

How It’s Commonly Used

Dimethicone is commonly found in:

• Moisturizers and barrier-repair creams
  
• Oil-free lotions and gels
  
• Lip balms and Sunscreens
  
• Makeup products such as primers and foundations
  

It is typically used in leave-on products for its protective, smoothing, and barrier-enhancing properties.

Note by Dr. Su (M.D. Dermatologist)

Dimethicone is one of the most dependable barrier-supporting ingredients in skincare. When skin is irritated, dehydrated, or over-treated, it helps restore comfort and protect against moisture loss without adding heaviness or irritation.

References

• Journal of Biosciences and Medicines, March 2025, pages 284–292
  
• Military Medicine, November–December 2024, pages e2523–e2529
  
• U.S. FDA Code of Federal Regulations, April 2020
  
• International Journal of Toxicology, May 2014, pages 65S–115S
  
• Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, May 2014, pages 36–44
  
• Dermatologic Therapy, May 2012, pages 229–233
  
• Clinics in Dermatology, May–June 2012, pages 345–348
  
• International Journal of Cosmetic Science, January 2008, pages 19–33
  
• Skin Research and Technology, May 2000, pages 77–80