Ingredient glossary

Dimethiconol

What Dimethiconol does for your skin, who it suits, and what to watch for.

INCI: Dimethiconol

Solid and proven

In short: Dimethiconol delivers softening and film forming, suits most skin types, and the evidence behind it is moderate.

What it does
Softening, film forming
Best for
Most skin types
Evidence
Moderate
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The Glow take

A comfort ingredient, and none the worse for it.

Dimethiconol is here for feel and moisture, softening the skin and slowing water loss. More comfort than correction.

— Maya

What it does

  • softening
  • film forming

moderate evidenceConsidered non-irritating with good conditioning effects; comedogenicity depends more on overall formula and usage level.

On a label: usually effective at 0.5-5%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • dry
  • normal
  • combo

Approach with care

  • acne prone if heavy
  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow

How it fits each skin type

  • DrySuits
  • CombinationSuits
  • OilySuits
  • SensitiveSuits

Take extra care if any of these apply to you: acne prone (in heavy layers).

Where it fits in your routine

WhenMorning and evening
Where in the orderAfter your actives, to seal everything in

Plays well with

  • cyclosilicones
  • humectants

Dimethiconol, answered

Is Dimethiconol safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Dimethiconol is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with anything, if you are unsure it is worth a quick word with your doctor or midwife.

Who should avoid Dimethiconol?

Approach Dimethiconol with care if any of these apply to you: acne prone (in heavy layers).

What concentration of Dimethiconol actually works?

Dimethiconol tends to do its job in the 0.5 to 5% range. Much lower and it is likely underdosed.

This, for every label you own

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Sources & how we reviewed this

Last reviewed July 2026. Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.