Silicone is often used in leave-on products because it helps them last longer on your face. Typically ending in -cone or -siloxan, there are many different names for silicone, including:īut what makes silicone such an important part of skin and haircare? In particular, why would you want a silicone-based foundation? There’s not one answer for that, because silicone accomplishes three important things as a cosmetic ingredient.įirst of all, silicone contributes to the length of time your product can be worn. Far less excitingly, it gets that suave finish using some form of silicone.Īs one of the most commonly used ingredients in cosmetics and haircare products, silicone can be found in everything from creams and serums to concealers, shampoos, and more. You know the silky feeling you get after lathering every inch of your body with your favorite lotion? That feeling that’s smoother than a Ryan Gosling meme? Well, unlike Ryan Gosling, that lotion isn’t made of boyfriend material.