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PHENYL METHICONE.

Valuable CAS 31230-04-3 / 63148-58-3 / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

Phenyl Methicone is a high-performance silicone fluid widely used in precision skincare and cosmetic formulations. It excels at enhancing product texture and imparting a luxurious skin feel, while also forming a breathable film to support skin hydration.

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Science

This ingredient operates by forming a non-greasy, non-sticky, yet breathable film on the skin's surface. This film effectively mitigates transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby aiding in moisture retention and skin conditioning. It significantly improves the spreadability and texture of cosmetic products, lending a smooth, silky sensation. Its high refractive index contributes to a desirable glossy finish, and it can subtly minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines, while also acting as a protective barrier against external irritants.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.2–24.8%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Concentrations as low as 0.2% have been utilized in Marzulli-Maibach Human Repeated Insult Patch Tests (HRIPT) to evaluate skin sensitization potential, indicating its presence and interaction with skin at these levels.
  2. 02 The highest reported maximum concentration of use in leave-on formulations, such as makeup preparations, reaches 24.8%, leveraging its textural and conditioning properties for skin.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
24.8%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has consistently deemed Phenyl Trimethicone (often referred to interchangeably with Phenyl Methicone) safe for cosmetic use, reaffirming this in 1986, 2006, and a more recent 2023 report. This safety assessment covers use concentrations up to 24.8% in leave-on products. It holds approval from both the FDA and EU for general cosmetic applications. A recent CIR report noted insufficient data regarding its safety in products with potential incidental inhalation exposure.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Phenyl Methicone is a valuable silicone fluid, lauded for its ability to enhance cosmetic formulations with a luxurious feel, superior spreadability, and effective moisture retention without occlusivity, making it suitable for all skin types up to 24.8% in leave-on products.


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