Dimethicone

What is it?

A silicone-based occlusive ingredient that forms a breathable barrier film on skin, widely used as a skin protectant and in moisturizers.

What does it do?

According to PubMed, a randomized crossover trial in health care workers found dimethicone cream (compared with hydrocolloid dressing and N95-mask-alone conditions) significantly reduced adverse skin reactions from prolonged N95 mask wear, without interfering with mask seal integrity -- real clinical evidence for dimethicone's protective, barrier-forming function under mechanical/occlusive stress, a different use case from its more common role as a lightweight moisturizer emollient.

Local suppliers (Coming soon)

We're building a directory of South African suppliers and manufacturers who stock this ingredient — check back soon.

Sources