What is dimethicone skin protectant?

What does dimethicone do?

Dimethicone is an occlusive, meaning it helps keep moisture from escaping through evaporation. That is different from a humectant, such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which attracts and binds water. Moisturizers often combine ingredients that bring moisture in with ingredients that help keep it there. Dimethicone also helps keep skin soft, making it a useful ingredient in hand moisturizers.12

The words "skin protectant" describe the active ingredient's purpose on a Drug Facts panel. The uses section tells you which problems that particular cream is intended for. The Drug Facts panel tells you what the cream is for, which is a better use of label space than another adjective.4

What can you use it for?

Chapped or cracked skin is a common use, but some formulas have additional uses, including chafing, protection from wind and cold, and diaper rash. For example, McKesson Thera Moisturizing Body Cream contains 1.75% dimethicone and is labeled for the face, hands, body and legs. The US La Roche Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 Therapeutic Multipurpose cream contains 1% dimethicone and includes diaper rash protection among its uses.34

There is no single strength attached to the name: Canada's Smith & Nephew Dimethicone Protectant is a nonprescription cream containing 5% dimethicone. Dimethicone also appears in barrier preparations, including Aproderm Barrier Cream. Choose a product by its labeled use and directions rather than borrowing instructions from another cream with the same active ingredient.56

How do you apply it?

1. 1For dry skin, wash gently and pat dry, leaving the skin damp. Applying moisturizer within three minutes after showering helps trap that moisture.
2. 2Apply the cream to the area you want to protect, following its label. McKesson Thera tells you to apply liberally as needed; the US Cicaplast cream also says to apply as needed.
3. 3Reapply when needed rather than treating it as a morning only or evening only product. For hands, moisturize frequently; for exposed skin in cold weather, apply a thicker moisturizer before going outside.

Diaper care uses a different sequence: change wet or soiled diapers promptly, cleanse the area, and allow it to dry. For the US Cicaplast cream, apply liberally with each diaper change, especially at bedtime or before prolonged exposure to wet diapers. Use these directions for a product labeled for diaper rash, not automatically for every dimethicone moisturizer.4

What if your skin is sensitive?

Choose a fragrance free moisturizer, especially for eczema prone skin, because added fragrance can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Dimethicone is a useful occlusive ingredient for eczema, but the rest of the formula matters too. McKesson Thera lists fragrance among its inactive ingredients. The active ingredient gets a prominent spot on the label, but the rest of the formula has not left the building.123

For the face, particularly under a mask, choose a fragrance free moisturizer labeled noncomedogenic, meaning it is formulated not to clog pores. A moisturizer containing dimethicone can create a protective barrier that helps reduce irritation. Apply moisturizer immediately after washing, and before and after wearing a mask.7

What should you expect, and when should you stop?

Expect temporary protection and relief of chapped or cracked skin. Stop using the cream and ask a doctor if the condition worsens, symptoms last more than seven days, or symptoms clear and return within a few days. Seven days is a point to seek advice, not a promised recovery time.3

These creams are for external use only. Keep them out of your eyes, and do not use them on deep or puncture wounds, animal bites or serious burns. Keep them out of children's reach. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a poison control center right away.34