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DIMETHICONE HYDROXYPROPYL TRIMONIUM CHLORIDE.

Optional CAS 133779-10-9 / ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING

A modified silicone polymer, Dimethicone Hydroxypropyl Trimonium Chloride forms a breathable, occlusive film on the skin's surface, aiming to reduce moisture loss and provide a smoother skin feel. While primarily recognized for its hair conditioning properties, its structure suggests potential benefits for skin barrier support.

Summary

Antistatic Hair Conditioning Film-forming Occlusive

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by forming a hydrophobic, yet breathable, film on the skin's outermost layer. This mechanism is primarily inferred from its parent compound, Dimethicone, which creates an occlusive barrier to significantly reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby locking in moisture and preventing dryness. This protective layer also shields against environmental irritants. Additionally, the film-forming properties can temporarily smooth skin texture by minimizing the appearance of fine lines and crevices, imparting a silky sensation. Due to its large molecular weight, it does not significantly penetrate the skin. Although its primary documented functions are antistatic and hair conditioning, its structural characteristics suggest it contributes to similar film-forming and occlusive properties beneficial for skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

This ingredient is not commonly associated with marketing claims of 'dusting' in the context of significant, specific skin efficacy that would warrant such scrutiny. Its skin benefits are largely inferred.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

While the Dimethicone backbone is generally water-insoluble and stable, the addition of the 'Hydroxypropyl Trimonium Chloride' moiety, a quaternary ammonium group, renders this specific polymer water-soluble. No precise optimal pH range for stability has been specified for this exact ingredient, but related compounds suggest a functional pH range potentially between 5.5 and 8.5.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
85%
Sensitization risk Unknown

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed the safety of Dimethicone, Methicone, and various substituted-methicone polymers, including 'Hydroxypropyldimethicone', concluding they are safe for use in cosmetic products when properly formulated to be non-irritating. The FDA permits Dimethicone (the parent compound) as an active ingredient in OTC skin protectant drug products at concentrations ranging from 1% to 30%. The maximum reported concentration of use for Dimethicone in products involving dermal contact increased to 85% by 2019. However, for DIMETHICONE HYDROXYPROPYL TRIMONIUM CHLORIDE specifically, some toxicity data (oral, dermal, inhalation) are listed as 'Not determined', which likely reflects a lack of specific testing for this derivative rather than an indication of harm, given the broader CIR assessment of related silicone polymers.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

While primarily documented for hair conditioning and antistatic properties, Dimethicone Hydroxypropyl Trimonium Chloride offers potential for skin moisture retention and barrier support through inferred film-forming and occlusive effects, making it an optional addition for specific formulation goals.

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