Difference between SiliSolve and SiliSolve Plus
Question
Given that both SiliSolve™ and SiliSolve Plus™ are listed with the same INCI name, PEG-10 Dimethicone, why is SiliSolve Plus™ able to emulsify a significantly higher percentage of oil (up to 30%) compared to SiliSolve™ (typically not exceeding 3%)?
Answer
Subject: Difference between SiliSolve and SiliSolve Plus
You are correct that both SiliSolve and SiliSolve Plus share the same INCI name, PEG-10 Dimethicone. However, the INCI name identifies the primary chemical compound but does not specify all the detailed characteristics, such as the exact molecular structure distribution, purity level, or specific manufacturing process.
Different manufacturers or different grades from the same manufacturer can produce ingredients with the same INCI name but with variations in their properties and performance in formulations. This is a common occurrence in cosmetic chemistry.
In the case of SiliSolve and SiliSolve Plus, while both are PEG-10 Dimethicone, they have been developed or refined to offer different emulsification capabilities:
- SiliSolve Plus™: Can emulsify water, oil, and silicone, allowing for formulas with up to 30% oil.
- SiliSolve™: Primarily designed to emulsify water and silicone, and can only incorporate a small amount of oil (typically not exceeding 3%).
Therefore, the difference in their ability to emulsify oil stems from variations in their specific composition or structure beyond what is captured by the basic INCI name, leading to different functional properties in a cosmetic formulation.