Are Silicones Safe in Skincare?

Silicones are one of the most common ingredients in beauty products. From silky-smooth primers to rich moisturisers, they seem to be everywhere. You've probably used them countless times without a second thought. At Nakin they are on our banned list of ingredients for our natural anti-ageing face products, and lately, a question has been gaining traction in skincare circles: are silicones safe in skincare? While they are generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, a growing number of people are choosing to go silicone-free.

This post will explore the other side of the story. We'll dive into what silicones are, why they are so popular in cosmetics, and explore the potential negative effects they might have on your skin and the environment. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture to help you decide if they deserve a place in your routine.

What Exactly Are Silicones?

Silicones are synthetic polymers derived from silica, a natural compound found in sand and quartz. In the lab, silica is converted into silicon, which is then processed to create a family of ingredients known as silicones. You can spot them on an ingredients list by looking for words ending in "-cone," "-conol," or "-siloxane."

Common examples you might see include:

• Dimethicone
• Cyclopentasiloxane
• Cyclohexasiloxane
• Cetearyl methicone

These ingredients are prized in cosmetics for their unique texture. They create a smooth, velvety feel on the skin, fill in fine lines, and give products a luxurious slip. However, they do not have any nutrition for skin.

Why Are Silicones So Common in Skincare?

Product formulators love silicones for several reasons. They are stable, cost-effective, and deliver instant, noticeable results that consumers appreciate.

Here’s a breakdown of their primary functions in skincare products:

• Creating a Smooth Surface: Silicones form a breathable mesh-like barrier over the skin. This smooths out texture, blurs the look of pores, and provides a perfect canvas for makeup application. This is why they are a staple in primers.
• Sealing in Moisture: This same barrier helps to lock in hydration by preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This can make skin feel soft and plump, which is a key benefit in moisturisers and night creams.
• Enhancing Texture: They give products an elegant, non-greasy feel. A heavy cream can feel lighter and spread more easily with the addition of silicones.

The Potential Downsides of Using Silicones

Despite their benefits, the conversation around whether silicones are safe in skincare often highlights several potential drawbacks. While many people may seem to use them without issue, others find they can cause problems for their skin.

They Can Trap Debris and Clog Pores

The occlusive barrier created by silicones is excellent at trapping moisture, but it can also trap other things. Sweat, oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells can get stuck underneath this film. For individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, this can be a recipe for congestion and breakouts.

While silicones themselves are non-comedogenic (meaning they don't directly clog pores), the environment they create can lead to clogged pores over time. If you find you're experiencing more blackheads or pimples after introducing a new, silicone-heavy product, this could be the culprit.

They May Interfere with Cell Turnover

Healthy skin relies on a natural process of shedding dead cells and regenerating new ones. Some dermatologists suggest that the heavy film left by certain silicones might slow down this process. By creating a barrier, they can signal to your skin that it doesn't need to produce as many new cells, potentially leading to a dull or sluggish complexion over the long term.

They Can Cause Skin Irritation and Dryness

Although silicones are known for their moisture-locking properties, they can sometimes have the opposite effect. The occlusive layer can prevent the skin from functioning naturally, including regulating its own moisture levels. For some, this can lead to dehydration and a feeling of tightness beneath the surface, even if the skin feels smooth to the touch.

Furthermore, because they prevent other ingredients from being absorbed, you might not be getting the full benefit of the nourishing actives in your serums or moisturisers. The silicone barrier sits on top, potentially blocking these beneficial ingredients from penetrating the skin where they are needed most.

Environmental Concerns

The impact of silicones doesn't stop at your skin. Certain types of silicones, particularly cyclosiloxanes like cyclopentasiloxane (D5) and cyclotetrasiloxane (D4), are under scrutiny for their environmental persistence.

These ingredients are not readily biodegradable. When you wash them off your face, they go down the drain and can accumulate in our water systems. Research has shown that these compounds can build up in aquatic life, leading several regions, including the European Union, to restrict their use in wash-off cosmetic products.

Should You Avoid Silicones?

The decision to use silicones is a personal one. For many people, they are an effective and cosmetically elegant part of a skincare routine with no ill effects. They can be particularly beneficial for those with very dry skin who need help locking in moisture.

However, if you have any of the following concerns, you might consider trying a silicone-free routine:

• You have oily, acne-prone, or congested skin.
• Your skin feels dehydrated or looks dull despite using moisturising products.
• You are concerned about the potential environmental impact of your beauty products.
• You simply prefer products with more natural or plant-derived ingredients.

How to Go Silicone-Free

If you decide to eliminate silicones, it’s easier than you might think. Using Nakin means that you can proudly use our products that are "silicone-free."

When shopping, take a moment to scan the ingredients list. Look for names ending in "-cone," "-conol," or "-siloxane," especially near the top of the list. Instead, look for products like outs that use natural emollients like squalane, jojoba oil, or shea butter to create a smooth, hydrated feel.

Be prepared for a difference in texture. Silicone-free products may feel less "slippy" and take a little longer to absorb. Give your skin a few weeks to adjust to the change and see how it responds.

A Balanced Conclusion

So, are silicones safe in skincare? For the majority of users, yes they can be, they are considered safe and effective from a cosmetic standpoint. However, "safe" doesn't necessarily mean "optimal" for every skin type or for the environment.

The potential for clogged pores, skin dullness, and environmental persistence are valid concerns that lead many to seek alternatives. By understanding both the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your skin's needs and your personal values. Listening to your skin is always the best policy.