Dimethicone: Synthesis, Uses, and Benefits

Introduction

Dimethicone, also known as dimethylpolysiloxane or Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), is a linear organosilicon polymer widely used in a highly varied range of personal care formulations. Dimethylpolysiloxane is the most popular silicon-based non-reactive organic polymer in the skincare industry and medicine, thanks to its beneficial properties (low surface tension and a high spreading coefficient).

Dimethicone is a colourless and transparent thick liquid, tasteless, odourless, nothing Poison, and is widely used in insulation, heat-resisting, damp-proof filling with excellent hydrophobic moisture resistance, good translucency, and chemical stability.

Synthesis

A preparation method of dimethicone comprising the steps of the pretreatment of hydroxy-end capped dimethyl silicone polymer； Pretreated hydroxy-end capped dimethyl silicone polymer and trim, ethylchlorosilane are uniformly mixed, in 50-100 DEG C of stirring compressive reaction 1-8h; It bleeds off pressure, removes trim, ethylchlorosilane and hydrogen chloride, obtain dimethicone. The raw material of the method is easy to get, the preparation method is simple, and the preparation condition is mild, which is easily achieved. In addition, without added regent such as a catalyst, the introduction of the impurity such as non-metallic ion non-volatile acid, so that the purity is of the target product, And post-processing is simple, the generation of no waste water and abraum salt is environmentally protective; And react progress thoroughly, trimethyl silane sealing end, target product yield is higher, and hydroxy radical content is low, the introducing without other miscellaneous elements.

Uses

Dimethicone is a surfactant, antifoaming agent, and carminative in various medical devices, food products, and lubricants. It is used in several health and beauty products, including hair care products such as shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner, and de-tangling products. On skin, it is also observed to have moisturizing actions. Dimethicone is usually used in oil-free facial creams, masks, moisturizers, sunscreens, and antiperspirant/deodorant compositions. It decreases transdermal water loss without a greasy feel. In addition, its high permeability to water vapour and oxygen doesn't seal the skin and allows respiration (skin "breathing"). A study found that the 100 % dimethicone product is a safe and highly effective head lice treatment for children and may serve as a less toxic and less resistance-prone alternative to pesticide-containing products.

Benefits

Dimethicone has several properties that make it useful for skin and hair products. It:

Forms a barrier: Dimethicone sits on top of the skin and hair, forming a temporary barrier. This means it provides some protection against contact with irritants or allergens.

Maintains moisture: By forming a barrier over the skin, dimethicone also reduces the amount of water the skin loses.

Improves texture: Dimethicone smooths surfaces by filling in crevices. This includes large pores and fine lines. In hair products, dimethicone coats the cuticle of the hair, making it feel smoother. Dimethicone also makes the texture of products more "slippy," allowing for easier application.

Gives a matte finish: Primers and moisturizers for oily skin often contain dimethicone because it has a matte finish. Dimethicone also helps seal in moisture without needing heavier ingredients, such as oils and butter, which can be comedogenic (can block pores).

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