Why Silicones Are Bad for Our Skin

At Nakin silicones are banned from our natural skincare because they do not have any beauty benefits, but they do have some beauty consequences for our skin. We are also shocked just how many facial skin products contain silicones, even so-called natural brands. We know why they are used so much; it is because they are cheap and leave the skin feeling soft, silky and cocooned. But using products with silicones in means less room for actual beautifying ingredients, plus the risk of the adverse effects silicones can have, such as clogging pores, leaving a greasy layer on skin, and building up on the face and neck. So, in our opinion silicones are bad for our skin, and we look into this more below.

Why Silicones Are Bad for Our Skin

We never use silicones in our natural anti-ageing face products for a very good reason, and to explain this we need to look into what silicones are and how they work with our skin. Silicones are a type of synthetic compound that is widely used in skincare and beauty products. They are popular because they provide a smooth, soft, and matte finish to the skin. However, these seemingly beneficial properties come at a cost.

One of the main concerns with silicones is their potential to clog pores and cause breakouts. This is because silicone molecules are large and do not easily penetrate the skin, leading to a build-up of product on the surface. This can trap bacteria and oil, resulting in irritation, blemishes, and blackheads.

In addition to clogging pores, silicones can also disrupt the skin's natural barrier function. The outermost layer of our skin acts as a protective barrier against external aggressors, such as pollution and bacteria. However, silicone-based products can create an occlusive film on the skin, preventing it from breathing and functioning properly. This can lead to dryness, dullness, and even premature ageing.

Moreover, some types of silicones have been found to be potentially harmful to the environment. Non-biodegradable silicones can accumulate in water sources and harm aquatic life. They can also contribute to air pollution when washed down the drain and end up in our oceans.

Another issue with silicones is that they can give a false sense of skin hydration. While they may provide a temporary feeling of smoothness and softness, they do not actually hydrate the skin. In fact, some studies have shown that certain types of silicones can even dehydrate the skin by reducing its ability to retain moisture.

Fortunately, there are many natural and non-silicone alternatives available in the market. These include plant-based oils, butters, and waxes that not only provide similar smoothing effects but also offer added benefits for the skin. They are more easily absorbed and do not clog pores, making them suitable for all skin types. This is why we use them so much in our Nakin cleansers, treatments and moisturisers.

While silicones may seem like a great ingredient in skincare products, they can actually do more harm than good. By choosing silicone-free alternatives like Nakin's range, we can not only safeguard our own health but also protect the environment. So, next time you're shopping for skincare products, make sure to check the ingredients list and opt for natural alternatives like Nakin’s instead.