Does dimethicone clog pores?

Does its protective film block pores?

Dimethicone is a silicone used in moisturizers. It forms a thin layer on the skin and acts as an emollient, an ingredient that smooths the surface by filling gaps between skin flakes. Forming a surface film is not the same as forming a plug inside a pore. Dimethicone is noncomedogenic despite its film forming properties, and its layer is permeable to water vapor.13

Dimethicone itself is nongreasy, but a moisturizer containing it can still feel greasy because of other ingredients in the formula. For example, silicone ingredients combined with petrolatum can produce a greasier product. Judge the finished moisturizer rather than putting one ingredient on trial, since the rest of the formula also turns up on your face.13

What should you look for if you get clogged pores?

Look for "noncomedogenic," "oil free," or "won't clog pores" on skincare and makeup packaging. These are the useful product selection terms when clogged pores are your concern; the presence of dimethicone is not a reason to reject a product. A silicone free label is not a pore care plan, however much work the front of the bottle gives those two words. Apply the same selection rule to sunscreen and makeup, not just your moisturizer.124

Can dimethicone help during acne treatment?

A moisturizer containing dimethicone can be useful alongside acne treatment. Benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and salicylic acid can irritate skin, and dryness or irritation can disrupt the skin's outer barrier. Moisturizers are often used alongside benzoyl peroxide or a prescribed retinoid to support that barrier. Dimethicone provides moisturizing and smoothing benefits without adding a greasy shine of its own.13

Dimethicone's role here is moisturizing, not clearing existing blackheads. If you already have clogged pores, a moisturizer serves a different purpose from an acne treatment that unclogs them. Acne treatment generally needs 6 to 8 weeks of consistent use before you see improvement; that is an acne treatment timeline, not a waiting period for dimethicone to start clearing pores.34

What if you still get breakouts?

Keep cleansing gentle rather than trying to scrub away the product or the blemishes. Wash twice daily with warm water and a gentle, noncomedogenic cleanser. Hot water and scrubbing can irritate skin, and irritation can lead to more breakouts. Avoid picking or squeezing clogged pores.24

See a dermatologist for deep, painful breakouts or if you cannot tell what type of acne you have. Deep acne needs treatment that addresses clogged pores, bacteria, inflammation and excess oil, rather than a moisturizer swap alone.4