• Volatile silicone that evaporates without oily residue
• Enhances slip and spreadability in skincare and haircare
• Leaves skin silky and dry to the touch
• Improves shine, softness, and combability in conditioners
• Compatible with oils, esters, and other silicones

Dimethicone (TC-1218) – Lightweight Silicone for Smoothing & Shine

 Dimethicone (TC-1218) is a blend of low-viscosity linear siloxanes, often used in cosmetics as a volatile carrier or lightweight emollient. Unlike heavier dimethicones, TC-1218 evaporates after application, leaving no greasy residue but imparting a smooth, silky feel to the skin or hair. This makes it ideal for serums, primers, sunscreens, hair serums, and sprays. It also enhances the application of makeup and reduces tackiness in emulsions, while providing excellent water resistance.

INCI Name: Dimethicone

CAS Number: 63148-62-9

Solubility: Oil-soluble; insoluble in water

Add Phase: Oil phase (or post-emulsion cool-down)

pH Stability: Stable across wide pH range (3–9)

Processing Temperature: Below 60°C preferred for volatility retention

Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Formula: (C₂H₆OSi)n

Molecular Weight: Variable (Low molecular weight grade)

Flash Point: ~120–160°C (varies by viscosity)

Density: ~0.84–0.97 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Volatile Silicone

Functional Groups: Siloxane

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Primers, serums, conditioners, sunscreens, creams, sprays

• Usage Rate: 1% – 10%
• Phase: Oil phase or added after emulsification
• Ideal For: Hair serums, skin primers, sunscreens, sprays

✨ Dimethicone (TC-1218) pairs beautifully with Cyclopentasiloxane or Dimethiconol to create silky serums, sprays, and primers. Use in hair care for a non-greasy shine that also provides humidity resistance.

✔️ Suitable for all skin types, especially oily and combo skin

✔️ Non-comedogenic and leaves a breathable film

✔️ Great for sensitive skin due to low irritation potential

1. Matte Skin Primer

Use 3–5% Dimethicone TC-1218 in silicone-based serums for a velvet matte finish.

2. Hair Shine Serum

Blend with Cyclopentasiloxane and Argan Oil for lightweight, glossy hair serum.

3. Sunscreen Enhancer

Use 2–4% to improve spreadability and water resistance of SPF emulsions.

4. Sprayable Body Lotion

Include as a volatile emollient in body mists and quick-dry lotions.

5. Eye Cream Smoother

Improve glide and reduce tugging during application of eye creams.

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Perfect for silky, quick-dry formulas.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds glide and softness without greasiness.



Toners
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟧⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not water-compatible.



Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Adds slip to rinse-off masks.



Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Boosts glide in cleansing oils/balms.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Improves detangling and softness.



Deodorants
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Useful in dry-touch roll-ons and sticks.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Smooths application around eyes.



Shampoos
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – In silicone-rich formulas.



Soaps
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Incompatible with saponification.



Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Boosts shine, slip, and manageability.



Lip Balms
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Adds gloss but limited adherence.



Body Butters
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Enhances spread and absorption.



Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Adds slip in semi-solid bases.

Q1: Is this form of Dimethicone heavy?

A1: No, TC-1218 is a lightweight and volatile silicone, perfect for non-greasy finishes.

Q2: Is it safe for acne-prone skin?

A2: Yes! It’s non-comedogenic and forms a breathable film.

Q3: Can it be used in water-based products?

A3: No. It’s oil-soluble, but can be emulsified into creams or used in anhydrous systems.