Table of Contents
How unhealthy are silicones in our cosmetics?
From lipstick to sunscreen: silicones are present in almost all cosmetic products. But why actually?
Benefits of silicones in cosmetics
Silicones have some beneficial effects that make them popular in cosmetics. In shampoos, for example, they ensure that a shiny film forms around the hair. This makes the hair look fuller, smoother and healthier. Silicones and silicone oils are plastics that consist of compounds of silicon, oxygen, carbon and hydrogen. Practical: They are easy to chemically produce and have a very long shelf life.
Also exciting: The ingredients of cosmetics and their meaning >>
The disadvantages of silicones
The problem: In our example, nothing has changed in the hair structure, it only looks optically improved. Unfortunately, the glossy film also means that it almost seals the hair. Nutrients can no longer get in, and the hair becomes even drier and more brittle under the layer. Silicone residues can remain in the hair for a long time and can also be deposited on the scalp. This can lead to increased dandruff and fat formation.
Silicones: More appearances than reality
Ultimately, it can be said that silicones in our cosmetics have a short-term, optical effect. The hair shines, the skin looks firmer. In the long term, however, they do not improve the problems; on the contrary, they even have unhealthy consequences for the skin and hair. We look in vain for nurturing properties here.
Furthermore, a health hazard from certain silicones cannot be ruled out, nor can environmental risks.
If you want to be on the safe side and want to take care of your skin and hair in the long term, you should make sure that your cosmetic products are declared as silicone-free. When in doubt, use natural cosmetics!
Tip:You can recognize the silicones under the ingredients by the endings “-con(e)” and “-xan(e)”. The silicone dimethicone(s) is most commonly found in cosmetics.
