Phenyl Trimethicone

Good

Silicone

Phenyl Trimethicone at a glance

  • A silicone that functions as a hydration-sealing occlusive and conditioning agent
  • Has a higher viscosity and a drier finish than some other silicone ingredients
  • Commonly used in skin care, makeup, and hair care formulations
  • Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel

Phenyl Trimethicone description

Phenyl trimethicone is a silicone that functions as a hydration-sealing occlusive and conditioning agent, contributing to a product’s silky texture and feel on skin. It has a higher viscosity and a drier finish than some other silicone ingredients. In addition to skin care, you can find phenyl trimethicone in makeup formulations, shaving products and sunless tanners. In hair care, phenyl trimethicone is often used to increase the shininess and smoothness of hair. Phenyl trimethicone has a long history of safe use in beauty products. In 2006, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reconfirmed its status as a safe ingredient. Their report looked at products using concentrations between 0.0075% to 36%.

Phenyl Trimethicone references

  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2006, pages 1-89
  • https://online.personalcarecouncil.org/ctfa-static/online/lists/cir-pdfs/PRNS513.pdf
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, June 2003, pages 335-351
  • Silicone Surfactants, 1999, page 190
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 1986, pages 353-371

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.