If you've seen or heard the term "Cyclopentasiloxane silicone", you've probably been looking at or listening to information involving cosmetics. Very commonly, it can also be found in windshield coatings, lubricants, sealants, and medical implants.
Also referred to as D5, cyclopentasiloxane silicone is water thin, non-greasy, and odorless. It quickly evaporates away from your skin rather than being absorbed into it. That's one reason it’s such a useful ingredient for products in the cosmetic industry – particularly for hairsprays, antiperspirants, and those that need to dry quickly.
But there are also lubricating properties involved with cyclopentasiloxane silicone. When applied to hair and skin, it gives a silky, slippery feeling. The product is also easily spread about.
Uses for Cyclopentasiloxane Silicone
After seeing the above-stated characteristics, it's not hard to understand why this ingredient is commonly found in sealants and lubricants. But the same characteristics also are beneficial where hair and skin are concerned. As an example, as a hair treatment, it helps reduce frizz, prevent breakage, and detangle hair.
Here are some of the personal care products that can contain D5:
Lipstick
Hair styling lotions and gels
Eyeshadow
SPF moisturizer
Concealer
Eyeliner
Foundation
Waterproof mascara
Products used for hair detangling
Shampoo
Hair conditioner
Deodorant
Antiperspirant
Sunscreen
Hairspray
In addition to seeing it listed on an ingredient label as D5, you may also see it listed as decamethylcyclopentasiloxane or cyclomethicone. This ingredient is not to be confused, however, with PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) or dimethicone, another siloxane.
Safety Studies
When concern was raised over whether or not D5 was hazardous to the environment and to humans, research showed that, as an endocrine disruptor, D5 caused a low level of concern. In other words, your hormone function is not likely to be disrupted. At current existing concentrations, the chemical is safe, according to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel.
What about skin irritation? In humans, D5 was not responsible for sensitization or skin irritation. As a matter of fact, in patients with rosacea and some other skin conditions, it actually prevented irritation when used as a lotion or sunscreen! Naturally, every person is different, and every skin type has its own level of sensitivity or allergic reactions.
What about the environment? It was once thought that aquatic animals may suffer when humans enter the water using D5. In 2011, this was disproven. The review board could find no evidence that problems would be caused in animals by concentrations of D5.
Typically, during use, the ingredient evaporates so quickly, that worries about it entering the environment by being washed down the drain has been labeled as "negligible".
Where to Find the Best Silicone Hair Products
Looking for a silicone hair product that is safe and reliable? Check out what we have to offer at Simply Stylin’ Products . With no fillers, our Simply Stylin’ Silk Serum and Simply Stylin’ Light Silk Spray are pure silicone products that offer numerous benefits for your hair.
Got questions? You can phone us at 972-769-9753 or email us at simply@simplystylinhair.com.