If you read the ingredient list on some of the most popular cosmetic brands, one ingredient you’ll see often is dimethicone. But what is dimethicone and why is it used in cosmetics?
Dimethicone
Dimethicone, also known as polydimethylsiloxane, is a silicone-based organic polymer. It’s essentially a lab-produced silicone oil considered generally inert and non-toxic. Dimethicone exhibits some interesting properties, and it feels incredibly slick. Although it’s a silicone oil, it feels strangely powder like. Its lubricating properties are so amazing it gives cosmetics a powder-like finish! As a Cosmetic Formulator, dimethicone is an exciting and interesting ingredient. Not only does it give hair and skincare products that powdery-soft, slick feel it also is an anti-caking agent. It feels amazing on the hair and skin. While there is some negative information about this ingredient out there, if you read studies and good scientific articles about this ingredient, you’ll find that most of the readily available negative information is based on fear rather than fact. I personally love using this ingredient for the way it feels and performs!
Ready to create your own amazing, powder-soft cosmetics? Check out this fun recipe!
Hydrating Refresh-and-Set Gel to Powder
This gel to powder is the perfect addition to your make-up routine! The soft and cool feeling of the gel in the container changes to powder perfection when applied to your make-up brush and skin. Use as a highlighter or setting powder!
Equipment You’ll Need
Food processor
Measuring utensils or scale
Nitrile or other protective gloves
Spatula
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Intermediate
Approximate yield: 0.1 Pounds or 3-4 large makeup jars
Approximate cost per pound: $30.90 – Cost per jar including cost of jar – $4.22
Suggested Packaging: Large Makeup Jar (20 gram size)
Suggested retail price: $30 – $40
Ingredients
- 0.0251 LBS 1 ½ Tbsp 25% Deionized Water
• 0.0109 LBS ½ Tbsp 11% Dimethicone Polymer
• 0.0029 LBS ¼ Tsp 3% Vegetable Glycerin
• 0.0166 LBS 1 Tbsp 17% Silica
• 0.0435 LBS ¼ Cup 43% Setting Powder
• 0.0010 LBS ¼ Tsp 1% Phenoxyethanol
Directions
- Mix all ingredients in your food processor. You may need to use a spatula to scrape the sides of the processor and mix again. Mix until your have an even consistency throughout.
- Press powder firmly into your makeup jar. Use a brush or sponge to apply as a highlighter or setting powder.
Please note that this recipe has not been challenge tested for preservation efficacy. If you use this recipe for market sales, it is up to you to ensure the safety of the product. We strongly recommend 3rd party challenge testing. If you need additional help, please contact us at info@ewlnatural.com or 866-252-9639.
