When it comes to looking picture perfect on the daily, who doesn’t want a product that hides large pores and leaves your complexion looking flawless? This is exactly why so many people rely on silicone based primers as the first step to their makeup routine, creating a base that masks pores and smooths the skin’s surface. However, using a chemical like silicone on your skin comes with some potential risks. Read on and find out the truth about using a silicone based primer, and why you should consider natural alternatives instead:

What Is Silicone?

Decades ago, silicone was probably best known as the material for controversial breast implants. A chemical compound derived from naturally-occurring silicon (without an “e”), the silicone product is actually a synthetic polymer, created when oxygen and hydrocarbons combine with silicon (Live Science). Because of its silky, plastic-like texture, innovators have discovered an increasing number of uses for the compound. In recent years, silicone has found additional ways into our homes and industries through cosmetics and shampoos, cookware, industrial lubricant and even baby bottles (MindBodyGreen). In cosmetics, silicone applies as a smooth layer on the skin to blur out the look of pores and fine lines. Also, its plastic-y feel helps makeup adhere to its surface, ensuring that it stays put for the day.

Is silicone toxic?

Many experts consider silicone non-toxic and completely stable. Even Health Canada states (about silicone cookware): “There are no known health hazards associated with the use of silicone cookware. Silicone rubber does not react with food or beverages, or produce any hazardous fumes.”

However, one study did discover that a few siloxanes - toxic compounds from silicone which are potential endocrine disruptors - were found in certain liquids in contact with silicone. In short, silicone is probably safe but the jury’s still out.

Are silicone based primers bad for your skin?

If silicone is not likely to be dangerous, what’s the problem with using silicone in your personal care products? The issue with silicone on the complexion is its application as a synthetic layer on top of the skin. Because of its ability to seal off the skin with its plastic-like qualities, silicone affects the health of your skin in a number of ways:

1. Seals your pores

Silicone lies on top of your pores as an impenetrable layer. As a result, minimal moisture can enter your skin. Also, any potential benefits from skin care products are blocked from entering the skin.

2. Traps dirt and sebum

Nothing gets in but also, nothing gets out. All the dirt and sebum in your pores stay trapped in there, potentially causing inflammation or even triggering acne breakouts.

3. Enlarges pores

Although silicone based primers mask the appearance of large pores, regular use may actually increase pore size. As impurities fail to escape pores, buildup increases in pores causing them to stretch out in size.

If you’re despondent to learn that the first step in your makeup routine is a skin care no-no, you’ll be relieved to discover natural alternatives. Eminence Organics Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate uses lactic acid, ribose and the natural extracts of red clover flower to create primer-like results for skin that’s selfie-ready 24/7. These three key ingredients dissolve impurities and dead skin cells, clearing out the pores and shrinking their appearance. Instead of relying on silicone to merely mask the look of large pores, our natural alternative actually makes pores smaller. In fact, 84% of our study subjects agree that after 30 days of using the Mangosteen Collection, pore size is reduced and skin texture is refined.

Provides Broad Spectrum Sun Protection

Looking for another natural option or an additional step after the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate? The Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 will be right up your ally.  Formulated with SPF 30, this SPF 30 shields the skin from both UVA and UVB sun rays. With zinc oxide, its natural minerals block UV rays to protect skin from sun damage. This water resistant ‘sport’ formulation helps keep skin protected from UV damage even when swimming or sweating. In addition, antioxidants help protect skin from accelerated aging. 

Effective Ingredients 

This innovative formulation not only contains zinc oxide. It also has Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Seed Oil which contains Vitamin C and antioxidants which help with the visible signs of aging. The use of Raspberry Seed Oil provides a moisturizer for the skin, while the inclusion of Aloe Vera soothes dry skin and alleviates the appearance of damage from sun exposure.