Cyclomethicone is a lightweight, volatile silicone fluid used in cosmetics as a solvent and carrier that spreads easily, feels silky, and then evaporates without leaving a greasy film. It is a blend of Cyclotetrasiloxane (D4) and Cyclopentasiloxane (D5), and it shows up in everything from face serums and primers to hair serums, deodorants and colour cosmetics.
What is cyclomethicone?
Chemically, cyclomethicone is a low-molecular-weight silicone (molecular weight around 370.77 g/mol) with the formula C10H30O5Si5 and CAS number 69430-24-6. It is a clear, colourless liquid that is thin and free-flowing rather than thick and sticky. Because it is 100% active, a very small quantity goes a long way in a formula.
Its most useful trait is that it is volatile. In plain terms, it glides across skin or hair, delivers a smooth, dry-touch finish, and then flashes off. That is why it is a favourite for products where you want good slip during application but no heavy residue afterwards.
Common uses in cosmetics
- Skincare: Adds silky slip to creams, lotions, moisturisers and eye creams, helping them spread evenly.
- Serums and primers: Acts as a carrier that leaves a smooth, matte-ish base for makeup.
- Hair care: Gives shine and detangling in hair serums and leave-ins without weighing hair down.
- Colour cosmetics: Helps disperse pigments in foundations, lipsticks and concealers, improving glide and blendability.
- Deodorants and antiperspirants: Provides a dry, non-tacky feel.
How to use cyclomethicone in a formulation
Cyclomethicone is used strictly as an ingredient, not as a finished product you apply neat. Typical use levels range from a small percentage up to around 20–30% depending on the product and the finish you want. As a starting point:
- Decide on the feel you need. For a light, dry finish, use it as the main silicone; for lasting shine, blend it with a heavier, non-volatile silicone like dimethicone.
- Add it to the oil phase or the cool-down phase of your formula. It mixes readily with other silicones and many oils but not with water.
- Start low, then adjust. Trial small batches and note how quickly it evaporates and how the skin or hair feels after ten minutes.
It pairs well with dimethicone: the cyclomethicone carries the product on smoothly, then evaporates and leaves the dimethicone behind for conditioning and shine.
Safety and handling
Cyclomethicone is meant for external cosmetic use only. Please keep these points in mind:
- Do not ingest. It is for topical formulations, not for internal use.
- Patch test any new product on a small area first, and avoid use if you have an active skin condition or broken skin.
- Keep away from children and store away from open flames. It is combustible, with a flash point around 176°F, so avoid heat sources and work in a ventilated area.
- Keep it away from eyes. If contact occurs, rinse with plenty of water.
This is an industrial-grade raw material intended for makers and small businesses who understand cosmetic formulation. Always review the COA and MSDS before use.
Buying and storage tips
Azlok stocks cyclomethicone in sizes from 100 GM for trials right up to 25 KG for production, so you can buy according to how much you actually make. Pricing starts at ₹199. A few practical tips:
- Buy a small pack first to test the finish in your own recipe before committing to bulk.
- Store in a tightly closed, non-reactive container, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Kept sealed and cool, it has a shelf life of about 24 months.
- Because it evaporates, keep the lid closed when not in use to avoid loss.
FAQ
Is cyclomethicone the same as dimethicone?
No. Cyclomethicone is volatile and evaporates for a light, dry finish, while dimethicone is a non-volatile silicone that stays on the skin or hair to condition and add shine. Many formulas use both together.
Can I apply cyclomethicone directly to my skin or hair?
It is designed as a formulation ingredient rather than a standalone product. It is best blended into a serum, cream or hair product at a suitable percentage, not used neat.
Does cyclomethicone dissolve in water?
No, it is not water-soluble. It blends with other silicones and many oils, so add it to the oil or cool-down phase of your formula.
What products can I make with it?
Face serums, primers, moisturisers, hair serums and leave-ins, deodorants and colour cosmetics like foundations all commonly use cyclomethicone for slip and a smooth finish.
How should I store cyclomethicone?
Keep it in a sealed container away from heat, flame and sunlight. Under proper storage it stays usable for around 24 months.