Stearyl Methicone
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Silicone polymer, Stearyl-methyl silicone
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Barrier Support
Silicone
Clean
Silicones and siloxanes, methyl octadecyl, trimethylsilyl terminated
Form
Liquid
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Skin Protecting
Helps rebuild and strengthen your skin barrier — the invisible shield that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Essential after over-exfoliating or harsh weather.
Nourishes & Protects
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a silicone-based compound combining stearyl alcohol with methicone polymer. Used in modern cosmetics as an emollient and conditioning agent without traditional historical use.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR