You may have heard that silicones in beauty products can be toxic, but what does that mean for your skincare routine? What are these silicones anyway, and how can you replace them with something safe? Let’s find out. Silicones are known as volatile oils because they easily evaporate from the skin. They are also called Teflon particles because of the resemblance to the brand name of non-stick cookware. Because they repel water, silicones reduce friction between skin and another surface; this is why they’re often included in skincare formulas meant for oily skin or humid climates. If you’re looking to create a homemade beauty routine free of silicones, here is everything you need to know about these chemicals and how to make DIY skin-safe silicone instead.
What Are Silicones In Beauty Products?
Silicones are synthetic chemical compounds made up of silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. They are widely used in makeup and skincare products that are water-based, including shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizers. Silicones are found in everything from hair treatments to shaving creams, as well as nail polishes, hair sprays, and even mascara. Silicones are often described as “invisible oils” because they’re oil-like in consistency but water-soluble. On the skin, they act like a barrier between the environment (e.g. pollution, bacteria) and your skin, reducing moisture loss and protecting against external irritants. This is why silicone-based beauty products work so well for sensitive skin.
Why Are Silicones Bad?
Silicones are not harmful when applied topically, but when ingested, they can be dangerous and even toxic to your health. Studies have shown that silicones can accumulate in the body and are harmful when ingested, especially by children. In rare cases, they can cause vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea. If ingested, silicones can also act like a sponge, picking up other toxins in the body. This makes them harder to remove from the body, and can lead to longer-term health issues. Methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone are commonly used preservatives that may cause allergic reactions in some people. Silicones, preservatives, and fragrances are more likely to cause adverse reactions in sensitive skin.
How To Make DIY Skin Safe Silicone
Silicones can be harmful when ingested, but they are also useful for topical skincare. Fortunately, it’s easy to make safe silicone for your skincare needs. One natural option for DIY skin-safe silicone is wheat flour and water. To make this DIY skin-safe silicone, combine one part water with one part wheat flour. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect consistency for your needs. Wheat flour and water silicones are great for face masks, hair styling and even shaving. You can also create DIY skin safe silicone with coconut oil, water, and baking soda. Coconut oil is a great emollient and natural moisturizer, so it’s a perfect choice for a skin-safe silicone. Combine one part coconut oil with two parts water and a small amount of baking soda. Baking soda is a natural thickening agent that can be used to make DIY skin safe silicone.
DIY Masks With Safe Silicones
You can use wheat flour and water or coconut oil and water silicones for face masks. Coconut oil and water silicone is a great hair mask for dry, brittle hair. Wheat flour and water silicone can be used to make a DIY clay face mask. It can also be used to style hair, as it’s ideal for thick, curly hair types. Coconut oil and water silicone is great for sensitive skin. It’s especially helpful for acne-prone skin. You can also use silicones with other skincare ingredients, like baking soda and honey for a face mask. The baking soda will help exfoliate and cleanse the skin, while honey is naturally soothing.
Conclusion
Silicones are widely used in beauty products, but they can be toxic when ingested. Luckily, it’s easy to make safe silicone for your skincare needs. One natural option for DIY skin-safe silicone is wheat flour and water. You can also create DIY skin safe silicone with coconut oil, water, and baking soda. DIY silicone is especially helpful for face masks, hair styling, and shaving.
