Silicones
Silicones are polymers which impart unique properties and benefits when added to a cosmetic / personal care formulation. Silicones can act as moisturizers, emollients, pearlizers, thickeners, emulsifiers, conditioners etc. More often silicones are added to neutralize the irritation caused by adding harsh surfactants. The most common silicones used in cosmetics are silicone fluids, alkyl methyl siloxanes, silicone emulsions, silicone elastomers, silicone gum blends, silicone polyethers etc.