Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that forms a smooth, protective layer on your skin. It helps lock in moisture, creates a soft feel, and is commonly used in moisturizers and primers to improve product texture and skin hydration.
Benefits
Improves skin hydration by creating a moisture-barrier layer
Provides a smooth, silky feel to products and on skin
Well-tolerated by sensitive and atopic (eczema-prone) skin
Non-greasy alternative to heavier oils
Science: Clinical studies demonstrate dimethicone is safe and well-tolerated in children with atopic dermatitis from 12 months of age. Research shows moisturizers containing dimethicone effectively improve skin hydration in mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis patients over 14 days.
Dimethyl isosorbide is a clear liquid solvent derived from sorbitol that helps dissolve and deliver other skincare actives into the skin more effectively. It works by enhancing the penetration of beneficial ingredients and improving product texture and stability.
Benefits
Enhances penetration of active ingredients into skin
Improves product stability and shelf life
Lightweight solvent that feels comfortable on skin
Potential concerns
Can cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive skin at high concentrations
May increase skin penetration of other ingredients, which could be problematic if combined with irritating actives
Science: Dimethyl isosorbide is recognized as a penetration enhancer in cosmetic formulations. Research shows it has relatively low solubility for certain actives (such as piroctone olamine at 9.9 mg/mL), making it suitable for specific formulation strategies targeting epidermal delivery, though peer-reviewed safety and efficacy data in skincare is limited.
Hydroxypinacolone retinoate is a next-generation retinoid—a vitamin A derivative designed to work like traditional retinoids but with improved stability. It helps reduce visible signs of aging by promoting skin cell turnover and improving skin texture, tone, and firmness.
Benefits
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles more effectively than some traditional retinoids
Improves skin texture, smoothness, and overall tone
More chemically stable than older retinoid types, meaning it stays effective longer in products
Generally well-tolerated with minimal irritation in clinical studies
Potential concerns
May cause mild redness, dryness, or sensitivity when first introduced, especially in sensitive skin
Should be avoided during pregnancy without consulting a healthcare provider (like all retinoids)
Increases sun sensitivity—daily SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential
Science: Research shows hydroxypinacolone retinoate has superior chemical stability compared to other retinoids in cosmetic formulations, maintaining potency longer. Clinical data demonstrates it significantly improves facial aging signs (fine lines, wrinkles, texture) over 16 weeks, with efficacy comparable to fractional CO2 laser treatment in some measures.
Isononyl isononanoate is a lightweight synthetic oil derived from fatty acids, used in skincare products as an emollient to soften and smooth skin. It provides a silky texture without a greasy feel, making it popular in moisturizers, serums, and foundations.
Benefits
Softens and conditions skin
Provides lightweight moisture without heaviness
Improves product texture and spreadability
Science: Research shows isononyl isononanoate has a very clean chemical profile with minimal volatile compounds—mainly just the ester itself and traces of isononyl alcohol from synthesis. It is well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations and considered safe for topical use.
Cyclomethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that acts as a spreading agent and skin conditioner in skincare products. It helps formulations glide smoothly onto skin and hair while creating a light, non-greasy feel.
Benefits
Improves product spreadability and absorption
Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft
Helps reduce greasy residue from formulations
Science: A comprehensive safety review by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel concluded cyclomethicone is safe for cosmetic use, with minimal skin absorption and no evidence of irritation or sensitization. Research also demonstrates its effectiveness as a penetration enhancer in topical formulations without safety concerns.
