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Ingredient deep-dive

Dimethicone: Is It a Microplastic?

Medium concernSilicone

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

Where it appears

  • Hair conditioner and serum (for shine)
  • Primer and foundation (for slip)
  • Moisturizers
  • Anti-aging creams

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

D4 and D5 cyclic siloxanes restricted; linear dimethicone (PDMS) under consultation for tighter limits.

United States

No federal restriction; FDA approves for cosmetic and OTC use.

Cleaner alternatives

  • Squalane (plant-derived)
  • Jojoba oil
  • Argan oil for slip

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Dimethicone, common questions

Is Dimethicone a microplastic?

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

Is Dimethicone banned?

EU: D4 and D5 cyclic siloxanes restricted; linear dimethicone (PDMS) under consultation for tighter limits. US: No federal restriction; FDA approves for cosmetic and OTC use.

What can I use instead of Dimethicone?

Cleaner alternatives include: Squalane (plant-derived); Jojoba oil; Argan oil for slip.

What products contain Dimethicone?

Commonly found in: Hair conditioner and serum (for shine); Primer and foundation (for slip); Moisturizers; Anti-aging creams.

Related ingredients

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

Dimethicone Crosspolymer

Silicone · Medium concern

Cross-linked silicone elastomer that creates the soft, blurring "slip" in primers and pore-fillers. A synthetic polymer network rather than a solid bead, but classed with the siloxanes the EU is tightening.

Read more