Is Dimethicone Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Dimethicone is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (emollient).
INCI name DIMETHICONE. Also called Polydimethylsiloxane. CAS 9006-65-9.
Other names: Polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, Dimethyl Polysiloxane
Is Dimethicone banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion, Benefit The POREfessional Primer, L'Oreal Infallible Foundation, Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Serum |
| CAS number | 9006-65-9 |
What is Dimethicone?
Dimethicone is a silicone polymer (polydimethylsiloxane) that exists as a clear, odorless oil or gel depending on molecular weight (viscosity grades 50–12,500 cSt). It is one of the most widely used cosmetic ingredients globally for its unique skin-feel properties.
Why is Dimethicone used in personal-care products?
Used as an emollient, slip agent, anti-frizz agent (hair), skin protectant, and carrier. It fills in fine lines and pores optically, creates a smooth skin feel, and reduces transepidermal water loss without the greasiness of traditional oils.
Is Dimethicone dangerous? Documented risks
Dimethicone has an excellent safety record. The CIR has reviewed it extensively and confirmed safety at cosmetic use concentrations. It is non-allergenic, non-comedogenic, and does not penetrate intact skin. It is FDA-approved as an OTC skin protectant (1–30%). Environmental concerns exist because high-molecular-weight dimethicone is not biodegradable and accumulates in aquatic sediments; this is a sustainability concern rather than a human health issue. No carcinogenic or endocrine effects are documented.
Products that may contain Dimethicone
- Pantene Smooth & Sleek ConditionerPantene
- Curél Dry Skin Therapy Original LotionCurél
- Pantene Pro-V Classic Clean ConditionerPantene
- Dove Intense Repair ConditionerDove
- Bath & Body Works Eucalyptus Spearmint Body CreamBath & Body Works
- Dove Original Clean Antiperspirant DeodorantDove
- Secret Shower Fresh Invisible Solid AntiperspirantSecret
- Secret Clinical Strength Invisible SolidSecret
How to avoid Dimethicone: safer alternatives
Squalane or plant-based oils for those wishing to avoid silicones; soybean oil-derived emollients for anti-frizz applications.
Frequently asked questions about Dimethicone
Does dimethicone cause acne?
Dimethicone is non-comedogenic and generally does not cause acne. It sits on the skin surface and does not penetrate pores. Some people find it occlusive in combination with other pore-clogging ingredients, but dimethicone itself is not the culprit.
Is dimethicone harmful?
No. It is one of the most thoroughly studied cosmetic ingredients, with an excellent safety record from the CIR and FDA. The environmental concern about its persistence in aquatic environments is valid but is an eco-impact issue, not a human toxicity issue.
Is dimethicone a silicone?
Yes. Dimethicone is the most common cosmetic silicone. It belongs to the polysiloxane family and is distinct from other silicones like cyclomethicone.
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Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Dimethicone and related polymers — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Dimethicone — Environmental Working Group
- FDA OTC Skin Protectant active ingredient — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.