5. Silicones in cosmetics: regulations and toxicology

5.1 Silicones and risks to human health

According to Directive 93/35/EEC (amending Directive 76/768/EEC), a cosmetic product is defined as "a substance or preparation intended to be placed in contact with the various superficial parts of the human body or with the teeth and mucous membranes of the mouth with a view exclusively or mainly to cleaning them, perfuming them, modifying their appearance and/or correcting body odors and/or protecting or maintaining them in good condition". As explained in the introduction, cosmetic emollients for topical application act on the epidermis, and more specifically on the stratum corneum. They thus differ from pharmaceutical products, which penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis.

Today, body care products and toiletries...