At Seasonly, we pay particular attention to the active ingredients selected by our laboratory for the formulation of our products; All must be vegan, more than 95% natural and we are careful not to use any controversial ingredients, this is why silicones are part of our no-list and you will never find them in our formulas. .
Indeed, although silicones are used in many cosmetic products and in particular in facial creams for their ability to create a “peach skin” blurring effect from the first application and magnify the skin, silicones are nonetheless very controversial and many brands choose to exclude them from their formulation.
What are silicones?
Silicones are inorganic polymers, derived from silicon, they are present in a multitude of products, ranging from electronic products to cosmetics. In the world of skin care, they are appreciated for their silky feel and their film-forming properties (they create a film on the surface of the skin which “blurred” imperfections and pores on the skin). However, concerns have been raised about their effects on the skin and their impact on the environment.
Why is the use of silicones controversial?
For their occlusive effect: One of the main characteristics of silicones is their ability to create a uniform film on the skin. While this property is sought after to give the skin a peach skin effect or to seal in hydration, it can also prevent the skin from "breathing" by blocking the skin's pores. This can lead to a build-up of sebum, sweat and other waste and toxins under the silicone layer, thus causing imperfections or exacerbating already existing skin problems. The use of silicones is therefore particularly not recommended for combination skin or skin prone to imperfections.
Because they are difficult to remove: Silicones are not water soluble, which means they cannot be easily removed by washing your face with a mild cleanser. Their prolonged accumulation will therefore require more aggressive and abrasive cleansers to completely rid the skin of the product, which will unbalance the skin barrier.
For the absence of nutrients: While products based on natural ingredients can provide vitamins, antioxidants and other nutrients beneficial to the skin, silicones offer no nutritional benefits and serve mainly as agents of texture.
For their impact on the environment: The question of the biodegradability of silicones is complex. Although some types of silicones are considered biodegradable, others can persist in the environment for long periods of time, raising concerns about their impact on aquatic wildlife and ecosystems in general.
Although silicones help smooth the skin and tone the complexion, their prolonged use can impact the skin by clogging pores and suffocating the skin, causing irritation and blemishes. Many ingredients today make it possible to obtain a similar result on the skin such as natural touch powders or even Lauroyl Lysine which are increasingly present in moisturizing creams and foundations for example.
