Replacing Silicones with Lightweight Oils in Cream Formulation

Question

How can I replace Silicones in a cream formulation with oils, especially if I want a lightweight texture? What lightweight oils are suitable alternatives such as LipidSoft Dry, LipidSoft Lite, and Isododecane?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Yes, you can replace silicones with various oils in your cream formulations to create a silicone-free product.

To replace silicones with oils, you can generally substitute the silicone in your formula with the desired oil at the same usage rate. The other steps in your formulation process would remain the same.

If you are aiming for a lightweight cream similar to one made with silicones, you should choose oils that have a light texture and absorb quickly. Some excellent lightweight oil alternatives to silicones include:

LipidSoft Lite: This emollient has a very light, non-oily texture and does not clog pores. It was developed to replace Cyclomethicone silicone, providing a light, soft, and smooth feel on the skin without silicone. It's also a low-gloss oil suitable for matte formulas.
LipidSoft Dry II: This emollient is focused on being lightweight and providing a dry feel to reduce stickiness and add smoothness, particularly useful in formulas that tend to be gooey, like sunscreens.
Isododecane: This is an ultra-lightweight emollient that evaporates quickly from the skin, leaving no sticky residue. It's suitable for oil-free formulas requiring extra lightness and provides water-repellent properties. There are different grades available, such as Isododecane (Germany) and Isododecane (Ultra Lite).
LipidSoft Cyclo: Developed specifically as a Cyclomethicone replacement, this emollient provides a similar smooth feel but evaporates faster, making it very light. It significantly increases the spreadability of the formula.
LipidSoft D5: This is a blend of hydrocarbons designed to replace Cyclomethicone (D5). It offers good volatility, slip, cushion, and a dry, light, luxurious feel, improving the overall aesthetic of the formulation without silicone.

While these oils can provide lightness and a smooth feel, it's important to note that the exact soft and slippery feel characteristic of silicones might not be perfectly replicated by oils. You may need to experiment with different oils or combinations to achieve your desired texture and feel.