Ingredient deep-dive

Stearyl Dimethicone: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernSilicone

Long-chain silicone wax used for structure and a silky finish. Siloxane, not a microplastic.

Where it appears

Stick foundations
Lip balm
Rich creams

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Beeswax
Candelilla wax
Shea butter

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Stearyl Dimethicone, common questions

Is Stearyl Dimethicone a microplastic?

Borderline. Long-chain silicone wax used for structure and a silky finish. Siloxane, not a microplastic.

Is Stearyl Dimethicone banned?

EU: Permitted. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Stearyl Dimethicone?

Cleaner alternatives include: Beeswax; Candelilla wax; Shea butter.

What products contain Stearyl Dimethicone?

Commonly found in: Stick foundations; Lip balm; Rich creams.

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.