A silicone polymer made of polydimethylsiloxane with silica. Used in topical formulas to reduce foaming, provide slip, and form a breathable film that improves spreadability and gives a soft-touch finish in primers, lotions, and sunscreens.
A silicone that smooths skin and helps products glide on evenly.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support
Type
Silicone
Ingredient Ratings
Overall Rating
Good
Comedogenic Risk
None
Skin Benefits
It gives skin a silky, cushioned feel and helps blur the look of uneven texture, and it aids smoother makeup application with less drag or tackiness.
Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics
It's used in foundations, makeup bases, and gel moisturizers for slip and a soft-focus finish, and included in after-shave balms to reduce friction and improve glide.
Comedogenic Rating
This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.
Safety
It's generally considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing, with minimal skin interaction. Rare individuals may notice an occlusive feel or sensitivity to silicones; discontinue if discomfort occurs.
Is Simethicone a Good Ingredient?
It lands at Good as an inert silicone film-former that improves slip and soft-focus feel, with excellent stability and low irritation potential. It doesn't reach Great because it's primarily textural rather than a treatment active.