Looking for that velvety finish when using your make-up products?Silicone in products can help to achieve that. Yet if you have acne prone skin, you may want to avoid products that contain it.
Since one of our primers contain silicones, we are addressing concerns whether it is safe to use or not.
What are silicones?
The word “silicone” may sometimes sound scary or confusing, likely because it pairs with thoughts of synthetic materials. In truth, silicones are synthetic. They’re made from a combination of silicon, oxygen, and often other elements—typically carbon and hydrogen. Silicones are derived from natural ingredients but undergo chemical processing in order to be used in products. The fact that they are synthetic doesn’t make them inherently bad, though.
How are silicones used in skin care?
“Due to their unique properties, silicones are used to improve the feel, appearance and performance of topical skin care products. Silicones can also benefit the skin and hair because of their conditioning properties, emolliences, and ability to prevent water loss by creating a breathable barrier. They can make the skin appear smoother and more radiant due to their light reflective properties and ability to fill in lines and pores.
The properties mentioned above make silicones ideal in makeup primers, as well as BB creams, foundations, and other cream-based cosmetics.
Are there any dangers to consider?
Topically applied silicones in general are considered safe. Claims that silicones can be problematic or dangerous for the skin when used topically have not been substantiated with scientific research. Silicone is both hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic and not known to sensitize the skin.
Silicones can increase the penetration of other ingredients, thus you could experience issues if those other ingredients are not compatible with your skin type. For example, silicone may increase the penetration of potentially comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredients, thereby leading to the development of acne.
It is important to note that some users may have an allergy to silicone or it’s excipents, [which are inactive ingredients that are used in conjunction with silicones]. For these reasons, sensitive skin types including those with acne or rosacea, or acne-prone skin silicones may occlude pores and make the breakouts worse.
Alternatives to silicones
As you can see, silicones can do marvelous things for your skin. However, if you’re seeking alternatives to silicones in your skin care, you do have some options.
Many products can be used to improve how smoothly a product is applied. Marine based products and essential oils can help achieve these results.
Though the effect won’t be quite the same, a couple drops of your favorite serum or oil added to your foundation can similarly improve hydration and fluidity. You can also apply oil straight to bare skin underneath your SPF. Additional options that are skin-approved are camellia, sunflower, argan, and rosehip oils.
Hopefully this has provided you some information about silicone based products and alternative if you find it not an option for your skincare health.