SIMETHICONE
Simethicone is a silicone-based mixture of polydimethylsiloxane polymers and silica. It is therefore not one single, fixed-size molecule, but a material whose properties come from the combination of those components.
SIMETHICONE: what it is
Simethicone is a silicone-based mixture of polydimethylsiloxane polymers and silica. It is therefore not one single, fixed-size molecule, but a material whose properties come from the combination of those components.
On an ingredient list, SIMETHICONE is the INCI name for this material. The presence of silica distinguishes simethicone from a silicone polymer presented on its own and helps explain why it is treated as a mixture.
SIMETHICONE: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, simethicone can help control foam while a formula is being made or applied. That can be useful when persistent bubbles would interfere with the product's texture, spread, or the finish a person notices during use.
It can also contribute to skin and hair conditioning and to a softer surface feel, because an emollient role is associated with smoothing that feel. This role does not mean that it treats dryness, damage, or a skin condition; the finished product determines the result of using the mixture.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
