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Cyclomethicone (Molecule of the Month for March 2007)

Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane



Cyclomethicone is used as a base solvent to blend with fragrance oils and perfume oils. Cyclomethicone is a clear, odorless silicone. It leaves a silky-smooth feel when sprayed on the skin. Ideal for body sprays, lotions creams, bath salts, hair care, linen sprays etc. Cyclomethicone stays completely blended and crystal clear without shaking.

Cyclomethicones are unmodified silicones that possess a cyclical structure rather than the chain structures of dimethyl silicones. Low heat of vaporization and the ability to select a desired vapor pressure has led their use as cosmetic vehicles. Unmodified silicones stay on or near the surface of the skin. Not only are the molecules too big to physically enter past the upper living cells, they associate with the upper layer of drying skin but they also cannot penetrate cell membranes due to their large size.

Cyclomethicones evaporate quickly after helping to carry oils into the top layer of epidermis. From there, they may be absorbed by the skin. Cyclomethicones perform a similar function in hair care products by helping nutrients enter the hair shaft.

Formal Chemical Name (IUPAC)
2,2,4,4,6,6,8,8,10,10-decamethyl-1,3,5,7,9,2,4,6,8,10-pentaoxapentasilecane

References

http://www.dowcorning.com/

Picture of Cyclomethicone 3D model

click on the picture of  Cyclomethicone above to interact
with the 3D model of the
Cyclomethicone structure
(this will open a new browser window)

Picture of Cyclomethicone

C10 H30 O5 Si5



Update by Karl Harrison
(Molecule of the Month for March 2007 )

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