Dimethicone / Cyclomethicone
The question

Is Dimethicone / Cyclomethicone safe in foundation?

CautionFoundation

Silicone-based ingredients that create a smooth, protective film on skin and hair. Generally non-toxic to humans but cyclomethicone (D4/D5) is environmentally persistent.

What the research flags

  • Cyclomethicone (D4/D5) is PBT (persistent, bioaccumulative, toxic) to aquatic organisms
  • EU restricts D4 and D5 in wash-off products
  • May impede skin breathability with heavy use
  • Some users report buildup on hair with repeated use

Other foundation ingredients on file

Sources & references

  1. [1]
    DatabaseIngredient database — 700772-DIMETHICONE
  2. [2]
    RegulatoryInternational regulator — 100.019.876
  3. [3]
    Peer-reviewedPubMed / NCBI — pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov · ref 26047847

Research disclaimer: Ratings reflect peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments available at the time of publication, not the dose or formulation of any specific foundation product. This is not medical advice.