A health and wellbeing expert is sounding the alarm about the presence of ‘hidden’ ingredients like cyclopentasiloxane (D5) in widely used personal care products. Lauren Short, founder of the wellness brand Ples’Jour, urges consumers to be vigilant, warning that many products assumed safe may actually pose risks.
Cyclopentasiloxane is a silicone-based compound frequently added to cosmetics and personal care items to impart a silky texture, enhance spreadability, and evaporate quickly without leaving a greasy residue. However, an independent analysis of 46 lubricant products found that 71% contained harmful or toxic chemicals, raising important safety questions.
“Most people don’t think to scrutinize product labels because they assume items sold on the high street comply with stringent safety standards,” Lauren explains. “But many products are applied to some of the most absorbent and sensitive areas of the body, yet regulation hasn’t kept pace — this is a serious blind spot.”
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While cyclopentasiloxane remains popular for its cosmetic qualities, it has been linked to potential endocrine disruption, environmental bioaccumulation, and fertility-related concerns. Increasingly, it faces restrictions in the beauty industry due to its environmental impact.
Lauren shares her personal experience: “I unknowingly used harmful lubricants for years before researching safer alternatives while developing my own brand. I want other women to avoid the same pitfalls.”
Beyond lubricants, cyclopentasiloxane is commonly found in antifrizz and detangling hair products, sunscreens, antiperspirants, deodorants, hairsprays, shampoos, conditioners, makeup, makeup removers, and night creams.
In response to regulatory changes, companies are exploring silicone-free and alternative silicone compounds. Natural options like botanical oils and waxes are being considered, though these may feel heavier and could irritate sensitive skin types. Water-soluble silicones, including plant-based and vegan options, offer promising substitutes without the drawbacks associated with dimethicone or cyclopentasiloxane.
Consumers are encouraged to read product labels carefully and consider safer alternatives as awareness of cyclopentasiloxane’s potential risks grows.