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Moumoujus

CYCLOMETHICONE.

Valuable CAS 69430-24-6 / 556-67-2 / 541-02-6 / 540-97-6 / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SOLVENT

A high-performance, volatile silicone fluid prized for its ability to deliver active ingredients with a weightless, non-greasy finish. It acts as a sophisticated carrier that evaporates quickly upon application, leaving the skin with a velvety, smooth texture and enhanced spreadability.

Summary

emollient solvent carrier skin conditioning detackifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

Cyclomethicone functions as a transient emollient and solvent. Its low surface tension allows it to break down the surface tension of other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of actives across the skin's surface. Because of its cyclic structure and high volatility, it evaporates shortly after application, providing immediate lubricity and a 'dry-touch' feel while temporarily filling in fine lines to create a smoothed appearance without penetrating deep into the pores.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–25%
Optimal

10%

Key findings

  1. 01 Concentrations between 1% and 25% are effective for providing lubricity and a soft-focus, velvety skin feel.
  2. 02 Recommended usage levels of 2% to 10% optimize the ingredient's role as an emollient and carrier for secondary actives.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

As a functional texture enhancer and solvent, cyclomethicone is typically used in significant volumes (2-20%+) to achieve the desired skin feel. Inclusion at levels below 1% in leave-on products may indicate its use as a residual carrier for other raw materials rather than a primary formulation driver.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable across thermal and hydrolytic conditions. It is easily emulsified and maintains integrity in various preparation types, provided it is stored in airtight containers to prevent evaporation.

Synergies

  • Sunscreen filters
  • Oil-soluble vitamins
  • Silicone-based primers

Conflicts

  • Castor oil
  • Glycerin
  • Propylene glycol
  • Water (requires high-HLB surfactants)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
50%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

While generally considered safe by the CIR and FDA, certain components like D4 (cyclotetrasiloxane) are restricted in the EU to 0.1% in rinse-off products due to environmental bioaccumulation concerns. For topical skincare, human health risk is considered negligible.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An essential formulation tool for achieving high-precision texture and superior spreadability without the weight of traditional oils.

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