Dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane

Dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane, also known as cyclomethicone 6, D6, or by trade names such as Dow Corning 246 and SH 246, is a cyclic polydimethylsiloxane with the molecular formula C12H36O6Si6 (CAS 540-97-6). It carries no assigned E-code and belongs to the broader cyclomethicone family of cyclic silicone fluids.

In personal care formulations, it functions as a volatile carrier solvent, delivering active ingredients to the skin before evaporating cleanly without residue. In coatings and release applications, its low surface tension allows it to spread uniformly across substrates, improving wetting and reducing friction between surfaces. Automotive and industrial lubricant formulators use it to reduce stick-slip behaviour in mechanical assemblies.

Dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane is supplied as a cosmetic-grade or industrial-grade liquid and falls under REACH registration requirements within the EU. Procurement teams should note ongoing regulatory scrutiny of cyclic siloxanes under ECHA assessments. Standard packaging includes drums and intermediate bulk containers.