Cyclopentasiloxane

Cyclopentasiloxane, also known by other names such as D5, Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane, and Cyclomethicone, is a type of silicone commonly utilized in cosmetic products. This ingredient is colorless, odorless, and non-greasy. Notably, rather than being absorbed by the skin, Cyclopentasiloxane evaporates quickly from the skin after application.

In the realm of cosmetics, Cyclopentasiloxane finds use in a wide variety of products. Its presence enhances the texture of these products and facilitates their application. By forming a protective barrier on the skin and hair, it helps to detangle hair, prevent breakage, and reduce frizz. Among the myriad of products where it can be found are hair sprays, sunscreens, antiperspirants, deodorants, hair conditioners, shampoos, hair detangling products, waterproof mascaras, foundations, eyeliners, concealers, moisturizers with SPF, eye shadows, hairstyling gels, lotions, and lipsticks.

Regarding skin sensitivities, Cyclopentasiloxane is generally not found to cause skin irritation or sensitization in humans. Interestingly, research shows it may even prevent irritation in patients with skin conditions like rosacea when used in sunscreens and lotions.

As a volatile silicone, Cyclopentasiloxane is known for its propensity to evaporate easily. This trait has led to concerns about possible environmental accumulation, but studies have shown that only a very small fraction of this chemical typically finds its way into the environment, an amount considered negligible by some researchers. On the topic of potential endocrine-disrupting properties, a low level of concern exists. However, this could become a more significant concern when used at concentrations higher than what is typically used in cosmetics. Importantly, Cyclopentasiloxane is not typically absorbed into the skin, and it rapidly evaporates after contacting the skin, with very little of the chemical entering the body.

It's worth noting that the European Union has set limits on the concentration of Cyclopentasiloxane used in wash-off cosmetics due to concerns about its potential to accumulate in the environment.