Silicones: Why They’re Not the Enemy in Your Skincare

(Even If You Ditched Them in Haircare)

When it comes to hair products, silicones often get a bad reputation. But should the same rules apply to your skincare — especially your face primer? Not necessarily.

Let’s break down the difference between silicones in hair care and skin care, and why our Velvet Touch Primer uses performance silicones with intention, not filler.

Why Silicones Got a Bad Rap in Hair Products

In hair care, silicones like dimethicone and amodimethicone were overused in conditioners and styling products. The problem? They coated the hair shaft without washing out easily, especially non-water-soluble versions. Over time, that meant:

  • Buildup that blocked moisture from entering the hair

  • Flat, limp, greasy-looking hair

  • The need for harsh clarifying shampoos to remove the residue

For curls and dry textures, this became a no-go.

Your Face Isn’t Your Hair. Here’s Why Silicones Work Beautifully in Skincare

In skincare — particularly in primers — silicones are used very differently and have very different benefits.

  • No buildup. Cyclopentasiloxane (a key silicone in Velvet Touch Primer) is volatile, meaning it evaporates after application. No residue, no heaviness.

  • Breathable barrier. Silicones like dimethicone crosspolymer form a light, flexible film over skin that helps hold in moisture — without clogging pores.

  • Non-comedogenic. That means they won’t cause breakouts or block pores. In fact, they help reduce friction on the skin — especially under makeup.

  • Easy to remove. Unlike hair, your face is cleansed daily. Silicones rinse clean with any gentle face wash — no sulfates needed.

 

Why We Use Silicones in Velvet Touch Primer (and Why You’ll Love It)

We don’t use silicones as cheap fillers. Our formula uses cosmetic-grade silicones, is non-toxic, fragrance-free, and suitable for all skin types — even sensitive.

So yes, you might be skipping silicones in your conditioner — and that’s okay.

But on your skin? They're a smoothing, breathable game-changer!

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