Ingredient deep-dive

Hydrogenated Dimethicone: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernSilicone

Saturated silicone wax used for structure and water resistance. Siloxane backbone, not a microplastic.

Where it appears

Water-resistant sunscreen
Stick products
Balms

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Beeswax
Carnauba wax
Candelilla wax

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Hydrogenated Dimethicone, common questions

Is Hydrogenated Dimethicone a microplastic?

Borderline. Saturated silicone wax used for structure and water resistance. Siloxane backbone, not a microplastic.

Is Hydrogenated Dimethicone banned?

EU: Permitted. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Hydrogenated Dimethicone?

Cleaner alternatives include: Beeswax; Carnauba wax; Candelilla wax.

What products contain Hydrogenated Dimethicone?

Commonly found in: Water-resistant sunscreen; Stick products; Balms.

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.

Cyclomethicone / Cyclopentasiloxane

Silicone · Medium concern

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

Trimethicone / Phenyl Trimethicone

Silicone · Low concern

Silicone polymer variant used for slip and shine.

Polysilicone-X

Silicone · Medium concern

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