Is cyclomethicone in foundation bad for your skin?

Silicone is the key to a foundation that stays put

Foundation, makeup base, sunscreen, BB cream, CC cream.
Many cosmetics used during and before makeup contain silicone.

Cyclomethicone is one such silicone.
It is widely used as a convenient ingredient to ensure makeup does not come off even when exposed to sweat or water.

However, some people may be concerned that makeup that lasts a long time puts a lot of strain on the skin. Or, some people say that silicones help prevent pores!

Are silicones like cyclomethicone bad for your skin? This article explains the good and bad points of cyclomethicone.

Related article on silicones: Why you should choose silicone-free skincare

What is Cyclomethicone?

Before we explain what cyclomethicone is, let's first look at the functions of silicone.

• Emulsify oil-based and water-based ingredients (keep them mixed together)
• Disperse pigments (colorants) evenly
• Creates a light, smooth feel
• Improve usability and feel

These characteristics mean that it can be used to create a light feel without a thick, thick application, which is why it is often used in foundations and other products.

Cyclomethicone is one such silicone. It is a transparent, odorless liquid silicone. It is smooth and evaporates easily.

By the way, various silicones are used in cosmetics, and cyclomethicone is a member of the "cyclotetrasiloxane" and " cyclopentasiloxane " families.

How Cyclomethicone Works

Cyclomethicone is It is included in a wide range of cosmetics. Let's find out why .

Foundation and sunscreen

Cyclomethicone evaporates quickly when applied to the skin. After evaporation, it leaves a smooth, dry feeling on the skin, preventing stickiness. It is resistant to both water and oil, so your makeup will not easily come off.

By the way, cyclomethicone itself is non-comedogenic, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores .

Hair conditioner/hair oil

It has the effect of preventing static electricity, so when you apply it to your hair, it leaves it smooth and easy to run your fingers through.
It fills in the unevenness of hair where cuticles have been lost, reducing frizz and adding shine to hair.

Cyclomethicone also has the property of being heat resistant, forming a protective film on the surface of the hair, preventing moisture loss and damage caused by heat from blow dryers and other sources.

skin care

Cyclomethicone is said to rarely cause irritation to the skin, so it is often included in skin care products for sensitive or dry skin.
When used in skin care, it is also expected to have an emollient effect, covering the skin like a veil and locking in moisture.

Color Shampoo

Helps colour-treated hair retain colour longer and enhances shine.

Is Cyclomethicone Safe?

As mentioned above, cyclomethicone is a very functional ingredient, but is it safe for skin and hair?

In Japan, there are no specific regulations regarding the use of cyclomethicone in cosmetics, and it is generally considered a safe ingredient.

But in fact, things are a little different in Europe.

The Danish Environmental Protection Agency has identified cyclomethicone as an endocrine disruptor.

In other words, it may affect hormones in the body that are related to menstruation, breast cancer, and the quantity and quality of eggs. In Denmark, it seems that caution is being called for especially in small children and pregnant women.

The European Commission is also awaiting a risk assessment to determine whether cyclomethicone is an endocrine disruptor.

What are endocrine disruptors? Endocrine disruptors: Cosmetic ingredients that disrupt hormone balance

Cyclomethicone accumulates in the environment

Cyclomethicone is a component that is very difficult to decompose. Therefore, after being discharged from the sea, it continues to accumulate in the natural environment and the ocean. Due to concerns about environmental pollution, in the EU, it can only be used at a maximum of 0.1% in cosmetics that are washed off immediately after use, such as shampoos.

The American EWG also gives cyclomethicone a risk rating of "10," the worst possible rating. The reason is also due to its impact on the environment. It is clear that in Europe and the United States, there is a high level of awareness about environmental pollution caused by cosmetics. The EWG also indicates the possibility of endocrine disruption.

It doesn't put any strain on the skin

Cyclomethicone itself is not an ingredient that irritates the skin. There are many benefits to adding cyclomethicone, such as a smooth finish without stickiness.

However, because it is a component that is resistant to both water and oil, the flip side is that it is "difficult to remove from skin and hair." In order to wash it off completely, you may need to use a cleansing product or shampoo with strong cleaning power.

If it is left on the skin along with other ingredients, it may cause irritation.

Even if the ingredients themselves are said to be gentle on the skin, it would be counterproductive to put a strain on the skin to remove them. Repeated daily use may also have an effect on dry or sensitive skin.

Skin, health, environment, and usability.

You may need to have your own criteria for what to prioritize when choosing cosmetics.

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