Dimethicone

dye-METH-ih-kone

Conditioning Agent, Emollient, Film Former 7/10 Safety Not CGControversial Synthetic Vegan

What Is Dimethicone?

Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer widely used in hair care for its smoothing and conditioning properties. It forms a protective, water-resistant coating over the hair shaft that locks in moisture and reduces friction. It is the most common silicone found in conditioners, serums, and heat protectants.

Source: Silica (silicon dioxide) from sand, chemically synthesized

Origin: Synthetic

Also known as: Polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, Silicone Oil

What Does Dimethicone Do to Your Hair?

Dimethicone coats the hair cuticle with a thin, flexible film that smooths the surface and reduces friction between strands. This film reflects light for added shine and protects against heat damage and humidity. Because it is not water-soluble, it requires a sulfate or strong surfactant shampoo to fully remove.

Best For

Frizzy hair, heat-styled hair, straight to wavy hair (1A-2C), damaged hair

Not Recommended For

Fine hair prone to buildup, low-porosity hair

Concentration Matters

1-10%

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight
Heat-damaged: Beneficial

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Avoid
CG Avoid

Safety & Regulation

7/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Non-toxic and non-irritating. Primary concern is buildup over time that can weigh hair down and prevent moisture from penetrating. Not biodegradable. No health hazards identified in safety assessments.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics and OTC products. Widely used in medical-grade skin protectants. No concentration restrictions.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

Dimethicone is an excellent smoothing and protective ingredient when used correctly. The key is to use a clarifying shampoo periodically to prevent buildup. If you straighten or heat-style regularly, dimethicone is one of the best protective ingredients available. Curly Girl followers should opt for water-soluble silicone alternatives instead.

Products That Contain Dimethicone

Conditioners, serums, heat protectants, leave-ins, styling products

Alternatives to Dimethicone

If you want to avoid Dimethicone, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol (water-soluble silicone), Broccoli Seed Oil

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dimethicone safe for hair?

Yes, Dimethicone has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Non-toxic and non-irritating. Primary concern is buildup over time that can weigh hair down and prevent moisture from penetrating. Not biodegradable. No health hazards identified in safety assessments.

Is Dimethicone bad for curly hair?

Dimethicone is not CG-method approved. Curly hair types may want to avoid this ingredient or use products containing it sparingly.

Is Dimethicone CG-method approved?

No, Dimethicone is not approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Dimethicone?

Some alternatives to Dimethicone include: Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol (water-soluble silicone), Broccoli Seed Oil

Get Our Free Ingredient Decoder Cheat Sheet

Take the guesswork out of reading product labels. Our printable cheat sheet helps you decode ingredients while you shop.

Check What's In Your Products

Use our free Hair Product Label Analyzer to check any product's ingredient list instantly.

Analyze My Product →