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Emollient

Cyclopentasiloxane (D5)

Volatile silicone is the most popular carrier in hair cosmetics and primers. Cyclopentasiloxane applies the product easily, like water, and then completely evaporates — leaving only the actives without any residue.

volatile siliconecarrierdry touchevaporates
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Cyclopentasiloxane (D5, Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane) — a cyclic volatile silicone with 5 siloxane units. Boiling temperature ~210°C — evaporates from the skin within minutes after application. Analogue: Cyclohexasiloxane (D6) — evaporates more slowly. In INCI: Cyclopentasiloxane or Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane.

Carrier of actives in hair serums, heat protection sprays, primers, and foundations. Popular in "zero-residue" products.

Key Benefits

✦
Silky application and instant evaporation
Provides the product with a luxurious silky texture upon application — and then completely evaporates, leaving only active components without any residue.
◈
Ideal carrier for actives
Dissolves lipophilic actives and transports them to hair or skin, after which it completely disappears — clean delivery without accumulation on the surface.
✧
Heat protection film
Before evaporation, it forms a protective silicone film around the hair — temporary heat protection when styling with hot tools.

Suitable for

for all skin typesfor oily skin (zero residue)for hair

Main Actions

✓ volatile carrier✓ silky texture✓ heat protection for hair✓ zero-residue application
D5 and environmental issues

Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) is restricted in rinse-off products (≥0.1%) in the EU due to accumulation in water bodies. In leave-on products (primers, hair serums) — allowed. Alternative: Isododecane, squalane, or Isoamyl Cocoate for a zero-residue feel.

CategoryEmollients
Found in these products
Paula's Choice RESIST Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) do for skin?
Carrier of actives in hair serums, heat protection sprays, primers, and foundations. Popular in "zero-residue" products.
Who should use Cyclopentasiloxane (D5)?
Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) is suitable for: for all skin types, for oily skin (zero residue), for hair.
Are there any warnings about Cyclopentasiloxane (D5)?
Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) is restricted in rinse-off products (≥0.1%) in the EU due to accumulation in water bodies. In leave-on products (primers, hair serums) — allowed. Alternative: Isododecane, squalane, or Isoamyl Cocoate for a zero-residue feel.

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