Cyclomethicone
INCI: Cyclopentasiloxane
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Cyclopentasiloxane
A type of silicone used in skincare
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Cyclomethicone?
Cyclomethicone is a silicone that is used to improve the aesthetics of a formula (its dry finish can help make moisturizers feel less greasy).
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, December 2011, pages 149S-227S International Journal of Toxicology, 2011
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Journal of Sensory Studies, April 2008, pages 149-161 Journal of Sensory Studies, 2008
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- CYCLOMETHICONE
- INN Name
- cyclomethicone
- EC Number
- - / 209-136-7 / 208-764-9 / 208-762-8
- Function
- Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
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Cyclomethicone is a variant of Cyclopentasiloxane, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Enhances the silky-smooth spreadabilty and sensorial feel of a product | Promotes even distribution other ingredients in a formula
Related Ingredients
Cyclopentasiloxane
Enhances the silky-smooth spreadabilty and sensorial feel of a product | Promotes even distribution other ingredients in a formula
Cetearyl Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
A silicone polymer that smooths texture and creates a protective film on skin
Cetyl Dimethicone
Cetyl dimethicone is a silicone polymer that plays multiple roles in cosmetics
Cyclohexasiloxane
Synthetic silicone known for its lightweight, non-greasy, silky feel
Cyclotetrasiloxane
A type of silicone
DEA Pg-Propyl PEG …
A silicone-based conditioning agent that smooths and protects the hair fibre
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