Dimethiconol

Dimethiconol (CAS 31692-79-2) is a hydroxyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane used across personal care, industrial coatings, and textile processing as a surface modifier and conditioning agent. It delivers slip, gloss, and film-forming properties to finished formulations without the greasy residue associated with conventional oils. In hair care and skin formulations, it deposits a uniform silicone film.

This film reduces friction, improves combability, and enhances shine in conditioners, serums, and leave-on treatments. Textile and leather finishers apply it to impart soft hand feel and water repellency. In automotive and industrial coatings, it functions as a surface leveling and wetting agent, reducing surface tension to prevent cratering and improve film uniformity across various substrates.

Sealant and elastomer manufacturers incorporate it as a reactive intermediate or plasticizer where terminal hydroxyl groups enable crosslinking with silicone networks for enhanced durability. The material is supplied as a viscous liquid or in emulsion form, with viscosity grades ranging from low to ultra-high molecular weight depending on the specific target application requirements.

Cosmetic-grade material is the most commercially prevalent, with supply conforming to standard industry specifications for personal care use. Technical grades are available for industrial coating and textiles.