Dimethicone is commonly used in creams and lotions for children ages 2-5 (toddlers and preschoolers) and is usually gentle and safe on normal skin. It helps protect and lock in moisture and rarely causes reactions. There are, however, some concerns about small amounts of related chemicals or impurities that can come from manufacturing and about environmental persistence.
Use products with dimethicone as directed for children and choose reputable brands or products labeled for children or as "pharmaceutical/purified" grade when possible. Do a small patch test on the child's inner forearm before using widely. Use a thin layer rather than heavy, daily whole-body coatings, and avoid putting it on broken or very irritated skin. If you want to reduce any theoretical impurity exposure, prefer products that do not list cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasiloxane, D4 or D5 on the label.
Stop use and see a doctor if your child develops redness, itching, swelling, or other signs of skin irritation after applying a product with dimethicone. Be aware that regulatory reviews (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), Environment Canada and European evaluations (REACH, ECHA) have flagged concerns about impurities and environmental persistence — this is why choosing tested, child-friendly products from trusted brands matters. Avoid products that list the cyclic siloxanes (cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasiloxane, D4, D5) in the ingredients if you want to be extra cautious.
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Dimethicone or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Dimethicone safety and effects.
Yes, Dimethicone is generally considered safe for 2-5 year old children based on current research.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Possible negative effects on the environment Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Dimethicone is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 2-5 year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product