KNOWN DATA TO-DATE
Silicones are synthetic compounds obtained from Silicon and Oxygen forming big dimensions molecules polymers. They can have various structures and textures, from very fluid (oils) to viscous, resinous, doughy, waxy.
They are almost inescapable in hair products where they are used for their conditioning properties for the hair, providing easy disentangling, silky touch, shine and efficient fixing. They also widely used in care creams where they provide fluid and sweet textures which spread very well.
Silicones, very little biodegradable, are proved to be very polluting for environment.
But they don't seem to have real disadvantages for human health and respect pretty well the skin. They are generally consider as safe in cosmetics.
Some cases of allergies have been reported but they are very rare.
In this big family, Cyclohexasiloxane (as well as Cyclomethicone) is a littler apart.
Mainly used as solvent and as medium for perfumes and essential oils, it is also listed in CMR European Regulation No 1272/2008, in Category 2 (Suspected to be human reproductive toxicant).
A SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) opinion, dated 22 June 2010, concluded that cyclomethicone does not pose a risk for human
health when used in cosmetic products, a conclusion based on the currently available in-use concentrations.
The although recommand that the European Commission consider whether an environmental risk assessment associated with the use of cyclomethicone in cosmetic products is required ...
This substance is indeed also listed in substances which may be a danger to aquatic environments.
