Dimethicone is commonly used on the skin and is usually safe for children ages 5 and up. Health reviews find low direct risk from dimethicone itself, but there are concerns about possible impurities and environmental persistence from regulatory reviews.
Choose creams or lotions with dimethicone rather than sprays. Check the ingredient list and avoid products that also list cyclopentasiloxane or cyclotetrasiloxane. Use a small amount on normal or dry skin as needed. If your child has very sensitive skin, test a small area first.
Watch for skin irritation or any new rash after use and stop if that happens. Avoid spray or aerosol products (risk of breathing it in). Be aware that regulatory reviews (Environment Canada, REACH) and an industry safety review (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) note contamination and use-restriction concerns—these are about impurities and product types, not about dimethicone causing cancer or allergy in normal topical use.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient may also be listed as:
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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 5+ year old children based on current research.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.
Possible negative effects on the environment
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure.
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 5+ year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
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