Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates primarily as an emollient, forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface to enhance moisture retention and prevent dehydration. It improves the tactile quality of formulations by increasing spreadability, imparting a smooth and silky texture, and adding slip. The 'Perfluorononylethyl' moiety, due to its fluorinated nature, is hypothesized to contribute additional surface-active properties such as oil and water repellency, though its specific mechanisms on skin are not extensively documented in available research.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
For optimal stability, formulations containing this ingredient should maintain a pH range between 5.5 and 8.5. It is recommended to incorporate it into the water phase of formulations and avoid heating above 50°C (125°F). For emulsions, it can be added once the temperature has cooled to 50°C (125°F). It is known to enhance cushion, texture, and slip, and can effectively reduce stickiness from other ingredients.
Safety
Safety Profile
PERFLUORONONYLETHYL PEG-8 DIMETHICONE is identified as a Per- and polyfluorinated chemical (PFAS), a class of compounds raising significant health and environmental concerns. PFAS chemicals are highly persistent in both the environment and the human body, with widespread exposure documented. They have been associated with a broad spectrum of adverse effects in humans and animals, including immunotoxicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity, cancer, cardiovascular issues, thyroid disruption, and liver effects. Further concerns encompass potential genetic defects and localized irritation to the respiratory system, skin, and eyes. While the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has assessed the safety of general dimethicone crosspolymers and related polymers (e.g., PEG-8 Dimethicone up to 5.6%), these evaluations do not specifically address the unique and extensive risks posed by this ingredient's PFAS classification. The FDA's 'GRAS' (Generally Recognized As Safe) designation mentioned in some contexts applies specifically to household cleaners and does not pertain to cosmetic use of this particular ingredient.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
PERFLUORONONYLETHYL PEG-8 DIMETHICONE is classified as a PFAS chemical, presenting significant environmental persistence and a wide range of documented human health risks, therefore it is not recommended for use in precision skincare formulations.
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