Silicone Solutions

“We’re focused on hybrid solutions. Our strengths are in organic chemistry as well as in silicones,” explained Aroop Roy, technical marketing manager, performance additives, personal care, chemical and process industries. “We’re not just a silicone company. We also have a big polymer business. Wacker-Belsil P101 is one of two polymers in the world that is a hair fixative polymer with silicone in it, so it gives a strong hold and softness.”

In addition to fixatives, the material can also be used as a conditioning agent in other hair care applications, and it acts as a film-former in color cosmetics, sunscreens and skin care products.

Wacker-Belsil RG 100 resin gel is another multifunctional material for the cosmetics industry. This semisolid and semitransparent gel functions as a thickener in formulations while delivering smooth applications, according to Wacker. Under shear stress, it thins to allow easy incorporation of pigments and other cosmetic ingredients. In color cosmetics, it provides a more substantive hydrophobic film to improve transfer resistance and to add a cushiony feel to powder formulations. According to Wacker, it can be used to thicken the oil phase of emulsions or anhydrous cosmetic formulations.

“Customers really like working with RG 100 because it imparts a silky feel and has film-forming properties,” explained Dr. Roy. “Multiple benefits are what a hybrid is all about.”

Demand for sun care products continues to rise, and Wacker markets several materials for this fast-growing segment. For example, Wacker-Belsil CDM 3526 VP, a C26-28 alkyl dimethicone, is highly substantive, has good water resistance and good spreading properties. Furthermore, CDM 3526 VP forms an occlusive seal to reduce trans-epidermal water loss—a key attribute for moisturizers.

Another material that protects against TEWL is Wacker-Belsil MM8030 VP, a C30-45 alkyl methicone. According to Wacker, it improves the formulation efficiency and provides a soft, non-sticky skin feel.

Finally, HDK pyrogenic silicas impart a wide range of attributes in personal care formulas. As a gelling agent, it influences the viscosity of oils, waxes and emulsions. It can delay or prevent sedimentation and settling of pigments and powders in suspensions. In creams, lotions, lipsticks and foundations, HDK improves stability, structure and skin compatibility. In powders, it is an effective free-flow additive, and in perfumes, it enhances fragrance longevity. HDK illustrates Wacker’s ability to offer a range of solutions to its personal care customers.