Silicones

Yes. Cosmetic silicones such as dimethicone, phenyl silicones and elastomers are considered safe for skin at typical use levels and are among the most thoroughly studied raw material groups. They are chemically inert, non-irritating and not absorbed through the skin. EU restrictions concern mainly the cyclic siloxanes D4, D5 and D6, and are driven by their persistence in the environment rather than by direct effects on skin.

D5 is not banned outright, but its use in EU cosmetics is restricted. Since 2020, D4 and D5 have been limited to below 0.1% in wash-off cosmetics, and Regulation (EU) 2024/1328 extends the REACH restriction to D4, D5 and D6 at 0.1% or more in both wash-off and leave-on cosmetics, with transition periods ending in 2026–2027. The limit also covers residual cyclic siloxanes present in other silicone raw materials.

D5 is most often replaced with linear volatile fluids such as methyl trimethicone, very low-viscosity dimethicone or blends with isoparaffins, which give a similar quick slip and dry finish. SiCare options include grades 205-1.5, 2942 and 2943. Where D5 was the carrier for an elastomer, cyclic-free elastomer gels are available, for example 9913F, 9916, 9933F and 9958. A switch usually requires adjusting viscosity, evaporation rate and skin feel.

A silicone elastomer gel is a crosslinked silicone polymer swollen in an oil or silicone carrier; it gives a velvety feel, mattifying and smoothing effects and is used in primers, creams and the oil phase of emulsions. An elastomer powder consists of dry spherical particles added to powders, foundations and emulsions for soft-focus and mattifying effects. The choice depends on the format: gels suit anhydrous products and emulsions, powders suit loose and pressed products.

Amino silicones such as amodimethicone are the key hair-care silicones: their positive charge makes them deposit mainly on damaged, negatively charged areas of the hair. They improve combing, smooth the cuticle and reduce frizz while weighing hair down less than high-viscosity dimethicone. Ready-made amino silicone emulsions are convenient for shampoos and conditioners, while dimethiconol and phenyl silicones add shine to oils and serums. The SiCare range includes amino silicones and their emulsions.

MQ resins (trimethylsiloxysilicate) and silicone film-forming polymers create a flexible, water-repellent film on skin or lashes that improves wear time and resistance to water and sweat. They are used in long-wear lipsticks, foundations, mascaras, eyeliners and sunscreens. They are available as solids or as solutions in carriers that are easier to incorporate. The use level depends on the required longevity and flexibility of the film.

Silicone emulsifiers such as PEG/PPG dimethicone copolymers or alkyl-modified grades are chosen mainly by the external phase: lipophilic grades for water-in-silicone and water-in-oil systems, water-soluble grades for aqueous systems. W/Si emulsions give a light, non-greasy feel and are popular in foundations and sunscreens. The final choice should be confirmed by a stability test with the target oil phase, electrolyte level and pigment load.

To get a quote, send an enquiry through the form on this page, email sales@viakosmo.pl or call +48 88 66 78 955 with the SiCare grades, application and an estimate of the volume you need. Every batch comes with a technical data sheet, safety data sheet and certificate of analysis. For silicones, it is worth asking straight away about the declared residual D4, D5 and D6 content to confirm the formula complies with REACH restrictions.