Methicone

Methicone is a silicone oil that serves several purposes.

First, methicone can function as an emollient, where it fills in the microcracks in the surface of the skin and causes the skin to appear softer and smoother.

Additionally, this ingredient works as a moisturizer. Specifically, it moisturizes through occlusion, in which it forms a layer on the skin that prevents water from evaporating or escaping into the environment as vapor.

Occasionally, methicone is even used as a surface modifier for various pigments or other solid particles. This modification creates a hydrophobic coating that allows for easy dispersion in oils and improves the longevity and vibrancy of colorants.