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The facts: Dimethicone is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Dimethicone on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion, Benefit The POREfessional Primer, L'Oreal Infallible Foundation.
TL;DR: Dimethicone is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion, Benefit The POREfessional Primer, L'Oreal Infallible Foundation, Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Serum |
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.
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.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Dimethicone with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Dimethicone is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion, Benefit The POREfessional Primer, L'Oreal Infallible Foundation, Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Serum. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Dimethicone.
Squalane or plant-based oils for those wishing to avoid silicones; soybean oil-derived emollients for anti-frizz applications. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Dimethicone or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Dimethicone.
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