What Is Silicon?

Learn about the abrasive characteristics of Silicon and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Silicon? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Silicon?

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Silicon is a substance that can be used as an abrasive in cosmetics, meaning it can help remove dead skin and make things smoother. It comes in different forms, such as a dark brown powder or black to gray crystals. It is also used to make microchips for computers. However, if it catches fire, water may not be effective in putting out the flames. Silicon has also been classified for its health effects, including use as a pharmaceutical and cardiovascular drug.

What is the purpose of Silicon in personal care products? It is used for its abrasive characteristics. Silicon physically removes unwanted substances.

What Are Abrasive Ingredients?

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Silicon has abrasive characteristics.

Abrasive ingredients are commonly found in exfoliating cosmetic products, which are designed to remove dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of your skin. These ingredients work by physically scrubbing away the top layer of your skin, revealing the fresh, new skin underneath. These ingredients can come in the form of powders, beads, or granules. Exfoliating helps to improve the texture and tone of your skin, leaving it looking brighter, smoother, and more radiant. It can also help unclog pores, prevent acne breakouts, and increase the effectiveness of other skincare products.

Abrasives are also commonly used in toothpaste and other dental cleaning products to help remove surface stains and plaque from teeth. Abrasives work by physically scrubbing the surface of the teeth to remove debris and stains.

Abrasive ingredients, in general, physically scrub and scour surfaces to remove dirt, grime, and other unwanted materials. When you use a cleaning product with abrasive ingredients, you'll often feel a gritty texture as you apply it. This texture is what allows the product to work effectively. As you scrub, the abrasive particles work to break down and dislodge dirt, grease, and other materials from the surface you're cleaning.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.