Ingredient Encyclopedia

Welcome to the Ingredient Encyclopedia

Discover what’s inside your skincare — from retinol to aloe vera — with clear guides on benefits, uses, and safety.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Dimethicone – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Dimethicone is a high-molecular-weight silicone polymer that serves as one of the most effective, non-reactive skin protectants in modern dermatology. Unlike oils that may soak into the upper layers, Dimethicone remains on the skin's surface to form a breathable, flexible film. This microscopic "shield" performs three vital functions: it fills in the gaps between flaky skin cells for an instant smoothing effect, significantly reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by trapping moisture, and lowers surface friction to prevent mechanical irritation from clothing or touch. Because it is chemically inert and too large to penetrate the skin, it is exceptionally well-tolerated by Sensitive and Reactive skin types, providing the comfort of an occlusive without the heavy, "suffocating" feel of traditional waxes or petrolatum.