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Moumoujus

PERFLUORONONYL DIMETHICONE.

Avoid / SKIN CONDITIONING

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone polymer designed to create breathable, hydrophobic films on the skin, enhancing barrier function and providing robust water resistance. It also functions as an efficient pigment wetting and dispersing agent, contributing to a smooth aesthetic and improved product wear.

Summary

Skin conditioning Film-forming agent Barrier enhancer Protective Moisturizer Pigment wetting agent Pigment dispersant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This fluorinated silicone forms an ultra-hydrophobic yet breathable film on the skin, effectively resisting washoff while allowing natural skin transpiration. This action helps to retain moisture and bolster the skin barrier, without imparting a heavy or occlusive feel. Furthermore, it efficiently coats pigments, facilitating their even dispersion and significantly increasing the water and sweat resistance of the final product, contributing to a desirable 'slip and feel'.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 0.006–2%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

As a fluorinated silicone, Perfluorononyl Dimethicone exhibits high hydrophobicity and resistance to washoff, consistent with the general water insolubility of silicones.

Conflicts

  • Regulatory restrictions and bans in key markets such as the EU and UK, stemming from its classification as a PFAS and concerns about its degradation into toxic substances.
  • Requires specific government notification as a 'significant new activity' for use in cosmetic products in Canada, indicating potential health or environmental risks.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not conducted a specific safety assessment for Perfluorononyl Dimethicone. It is classified as a per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), a group for which the FDA has identified significant data gaps concerning use levels, dermal/oral absorption, mechanistic information, and dermal toxicity. Critically, Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is banned or restricted in the EU and UK due to its classification as a persistent organic pollutant (POP) or a very persistent, very bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT/vPvB) substance. It is known to degrade into perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is toxic to reproduction and a suspected carcinogen. In Canada, its use mandates prior government notification as a 'significant new activity' due to potential health or environmental risks, with non-compliance leading to fines.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its classification as a PFAS, its degradation into the toxic PFOA, and widespread regulatory bans in major markets, Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is not recommended for use in precision skincare formulations.

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