Silicones vs Silicones

by Erick Carter

There are two types of silicones used in hair care products: water-soluble silicones and non-water-soluble silicones.

They are neither the same cost nor can they be treated the same.

Silicones work by covering hair with a thin coating to make hair less porous, lubricating the hair surface. They are a good conditioning source.

Non-water-soluble silicones do not dissolve in water and so must be clarified to remove from your hair. These silicones may build up in the hair. This will cause the hair to seem heavy and dirty. As a result, a person tends to wash and style the hair more often than needed and this can result in over-processing the hair. It may also affect how other products perform in the hair, including color.

Amodimethicone (also look for ‘amo,’ ‘amine,’ or ‘amino’) is the name for non-water-soluble silicones, the most common and cheapest non-water-soluble silicone used is dimethicone and the hardest to remove. These silicones are found most often in leave-in conditioners.

Water-soluble silicones do dissolve in water and are easy to wash out, and do not build up. Cyclomethicone is the most commonly used silicone in hair care products. Dimethicone Copolyol, water soluble, is a bit higher in price but is the best silicone product for your hair.

The main purpose of any silicone is to give your hair control over frizz and to add shine. It is important to understand which product is best for you.

If you have any questions feel free to email me.

Erickcre8u@gmail.com

Erick Carter, Salon Zenergy