ABSTRACT
Dimethicone is a mixture of siloxane polymers and can be used in creams at concentrations of up to 15% as a barrier agent. Skin care is based on a regimen of cleansing, moisturising and barrier protection. Skin care products and cosmetics are composed of ingredients that are necessary to formulate the product and provide its efficacy and safety, as well as ingredients to improve cosmetic acceptability. Examples of beneficial cleanser ingredients include glycerol for hydration, paraffin for barrier protection and oils for softening. Many of the newer moisturising cleansers contain ingredients that deposit on the skin in order to protect it from water loss by boosting the barrier function. Chemical preservatives should prevent the growth of microorganisms throughout the product shelf life without causing adverse skin reactions. Surfactants can cause water loss from normal and sensitive skin, leading to dryness and damage of the skin barrier.
