Dimethicone (CAS 9006-65-9) — Citrus Fragrance Ingredient
Dimethicone
CAS 9006-65-9
What Is Dimethicone?
Dimethicone is a versatile silicone-based compound found in countless personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, and skincare. It creates a silky, slippery texture that helps products spread easily and leaves hair/skin feeling smooth. While odorless itself, dimethicone acts as a carrier that enhances fragrance delivery and longevity in formulas. This invisible workhorse improves product performance while preventing moisture loss.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Dimethicone Smell Like?
Dimethicone itself is completely odorless, functioning as an invisible carrier in fragrance formulations. Its neutral profile makes it an ideal solvent for delicate aromachemicals that might otherwise interact with polar carriers. The silicone matrix creates a smooth diffusion effect, allowing top notes to sparkle while gradually releasing heart notes in a controlled manner. In drydown, it leaves no olfactory trace—only a weightless, velvety texture that enhances skin compatibility.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a carrier for the bright citrus-grapefruit opening, allowing the sparkling top notes to last longer on skin while preventing harsh alcohol evaporation effects.
Helps create the perfume’s characteristic ‘freshly applied’ sensation by forming an even film that slowly releases the crisp apple and bamboo notes.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Dimethicone is a polymer consisting of repeating dimethylsiloxane units with trimethylsilyl end groups. This linear silicone structure gives it unique physical properties—low surface tension, thermal stability, and flexibility. Industrially produced via hydrolysis of dimethyldichlorosilane followed by polymerization. The chain length (viscosity grade) determines its flow characteristics, ranging from water-thin to honey-like consistency. Unlike many organic compounds, its backbone consists of alternating silicon-oxygen bonds rather than carbon chains, making it chemically inert and resistant to oxidation.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | Varies by grade (5-100,000 cSt) |
| Flash Point | >200°C (high molecular weight grades) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Care | 1-3% | Up to 10% | Provides shine and detangling |
| Skin Care | 0.5-5% | Up to 20% | Emollient and protective barrier |
| Color Cosmetics | 2-8% | Up to 15% | Improves pigment dispersion |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use low-viscosity grades (5-50 cSt) for sprayable fragrance applications to ensure even distribution without stickiness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Volatile cyclic silicone with faster evaporation profile, preferred when temporary silky feel is desired without long-term buildup.
Aromatic-modified version with higher refractive index for extra shine in haircare, though less compatible with some fragrance oils.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. IFRA, REACH, EU Cosmetics Regulation standards update periodically. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating. Not legal or regulatory advice.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA – classified as non-reactive carrier solvent.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM considers dimethicone safe as used in cosmetic applications with no significant dermal absorption.
Sustainability
While derived from silica (abundant resource), manufacturing requires energy-intensive processes. Not readily biodegradable but inert in environment. Some concerns about accumulation in wastewater systems have led to development of biodegradable silicones. Recyclable in industrial settings. Synthetic production avoids any agricultural impacts.
Explore Dimethicone
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References
- Fink et al. (2017). Silicones in Personal Care. Cosmetic Science Technology. Industry review
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
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