Cyclohexasiloxane

Good

Silicone

Cyclohexasiloxane at a glance

  • Synthetic silicone known for its lightweight, non-greasy, silky feel
  • Helps enhance skin’s hydration
  • Acts as a carrier to deliver other ingredients effectively and evenly
  • Can be found in a wide range of skin care, makeup, hair care and other personal care products
  • Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel

Cyclohexasiloxane description

Cyclohexasiloxane is one of several forms of synthetic, cyclic (meaning the molecule is circular rather than straight or crosslinked) silicone used in cosmetic formulas to improve texture and enhance skin’s hydration. It helps give skin care products a silky-smooth, spreadable consistency, so key ingredients can be delivered evenly to skin. It is also known to promote aesthetically pleasing finishes that don’t feel sticky, tacky or greasy after application. In hair care, it is used to add shine and reduce frizz. As a raw material, cyclohexasiloxane is a colourless liquid. It is described as a lightweight carrier ingredient since it evaporates from skin, leaving behind the formula’s key ingredients to work effectively. This ingredient has been deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (their report looked at products using between 0.0004-48% cyclohexasiloxane).

Cyclohexasiloxane references

  • Dow (supplier info), Accessed September 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, December 2011, pages 149S-227S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.