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Ingredient deep-dive

Amodimethicone: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernSilicone

Amino-functional silicone polymer that binds to hair to smooth and detangle. Same siloxane family as dimethicone, harder to rinse out.

Where it appears

  • Conditioner and hair masks
  • Leave-in conditioners
  • Anti-frizz serums
  • Color-protect shampoos

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; part of the siloxane group under ongoing EU review.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

  • Behentrimonium methosulfate
  • Cetearyl alcohol
  • Plant oils for slip

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Amodimethicone, common questions

Is Amodimethicone a microplastic?

Borderline. Amino-functional silicone polymer that binds to hair to smooth and detangle. Same siloxane family as dimethicone, harder to rinse out.

Is Amodimethicone banned?

EU: Permitted; part of the siloxane group under ongoing EU review. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Amodimethicone?

Cleaner alternatives include: Behentrimonium methosulfate; Cetearyl alcohol; Plant oils for slip.

What products contain Amodimethicone?

Commonly found in: Conditioner and hair masks; Leave-in conditioners; Anti-frizz serums; Color-protect shampoos.

Related ingredients

Dimethicone

Silicone · Medium concern

Silicone polymer (polydimethylsiloxane). Not the same as solid microplastic but classed as a synthetic polymer; EU is consulting on tighter limits.

Read more

Cyclomethicone / Cyclopentasiloxane

Silicone · Medium concern

Cyclic siloxanes. D4 and D5 variants are EU-restricted in rinse-off products.

Read more

Trimethicone / Phenyl Trimethicone

Silicone · Low concern

Silicone polymer variant used for slip and shine.

Read more

Polysilicone-X

Silicone · Medium concern

Synthetic silicone polymer family used as film-formers in long-wear makeup.

Read more