Silicones are widely used ingredients in skincare products due to their unique properties. They give products a smooth texture and form a protective layer on the skin. However, at Hypogeen, we choose not to use silicones. Why? Because we want our products to be safe and effective for everyone, without the risk of allergic reactions. On this page, you can read more about silicones and why we decided to remove them from our formulas.

What are silicones?

Silicones are synthetic substances made of silicon and oxygen atoms. This may sound complicated, but silicon actually comes from materials like sand and granite. Silicones are colorless and odorless and are often used in cosmetics because they are not easily affected by oxygen, light, or bacteria. You can recognize them on product ingredient lists by names ending in -cone or -xane, such as dimethicone and cyclomethicone.

Silicones are divided into three categories: water-soluble, non-water-soluble, and evaporating silicones. Water-soluble silicones can be easily washed off with water, non-water-soluble silicones require a special cleanser, and evaporating silicones disappear on their own after application.

What are silicones used for in skincare?

Why are silicones so often used in skincare? They create a smooth, silky layer on the skin, which feels pleasant and looks good. They also help to retain moisture in the skin, providing a hydrated appearance. Additionally, silicones can protect the skin by forming a barrier against irritants and allergens. Silicones are also widely used in hair care products because they form a coating around the hair, making it feel softer and smoother. Moreover, silicones are common ingredients in foot creams, body lotions, serums, and makeup primers. This all sounds good, but there are also drawbacks.
haarshampoo_front
Hypogeen Shampoo without silicones
baddouchegel_front
Hypogeen Bath & Shower Gel without silicones

What do silicones do to the skin?

Silicones mainly work on the surface of the skin. They create a layer that prevents moisture loss and makes the skin instantly smooth and soft. That sounds ideal, but here's the downside: that same layer can clog pores, especially with non-water-soluble silicones. This can lead to skin issues like pimples, especially for people with sensitive skin. Additionally, the barrier formed by silicones can make it harder for other beneficial ingredients to be absorbed by the skin. This means that the positive effects of your cream or lotion may not be as effective as you initially think.

Hypogeen Night Cream

  • Moisturizing Night Cream with Q10
  • Free from silicones
  • Helps with clogged pores
  • Helps prevent skin aging
  • For dry and sensitive skin
  • Intensively nourishing & gentle action

Why are there no silicones in Hypogeen?

You might wonder: “If silicones are so commonly used, why does Hypogeen choose not to use them?” The answer is simple. While silicones offer many benefits, some people are sensitive to these substances and can even develop allergic reactions. Although this group is small, we want to create products that are safe for everyone to use. That’s why we decided to remove silicones from our formulas. This fits with our philosophy of creating skincare that is not only effective but also gentle on the skin, even for those with the most sensitive skin types.

At Hypogeen, we believe in skincare that truly cares for the skin, without suffocating or irritating it. That's why we use other ingredients, such as Shea Butter, that provide a smooth feel but without the downsides of silicones. This way, everyone can enjoy healthy, radiant skin without worrying about potential allergic reactions or other skin issues that silicones may cause.