Silicon v. Silicone - What's the difference?
Silicon is a naturally occurring chemical element rarely found in its pure form. It is most commonly referred to as silica (silicon dioxide). We use silica in Cloud 9 100% Mineral Sun Balm SPF 40, City Serum Sunscreen SPF 30, Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40, Daily Dose Vitamin C + SPF 40 Serum, Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, Mattescreen SPF 40, Defense Refresh (Re)setting Mist SPF 40, Poof Part Powder SPF 45, (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35, (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35 Refill, Shimmershade SPF 30, CC Screen 100% Mineral CC Cream SPF 5, Sunnyscreen™ 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 50, and Glowscreen Body SPF 40. Silica's main benefit is that it helps absorb moisture and acts as an opacifying agent. Silicon has other benefits when taken as a supplement like helping to rebuild collagen and helping the skin retain water.
Silicone is a synthetic substance made up of silicon, oxygen, and other elements. We use silicones to:
- Improve the efficacy of the sunscreens. They help disperse the sunscreen actives more evenly so that you get an even layer of protection.
- Provide the priming benefits of filling in fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing the skin, and creating an even canvas for makeup to adhere to. They also help makeup last longer.
- Help provide water resistance as they have hydrophobic nature.
- Supergoop! only uses silicones that have been determined to be safe and effective.
