Silicone

Cetyl Dimethicone

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026

Cetyl dimethicone is a silicone polymer that plays multiple roles in cosmetics

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What Is Cetyl Dimethicone?

Cetyl dimethicone is a silicone polymer that plays multiple roles in cosmetics. It can be a foam-reducing agent, emollient, emulsifier, and occlusive (meaning it prevents water loss but does not suffocate skin).

Clinical Evidence & References

Published Research

How widely it's used

0.5%
of skincare products contain this ingredient — placing it in the top 25% of most-used ingredients.
Most common in: Sunscreens Moisturisers

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
CETYL DIMETHICONE
Function
Emollient

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