If you’ve ever scanned the ingredient list on a few of our products, you might have noticed Silica and felt a little confused—especially since our products are proudly silicone-free.
I get it. The names sound so similar that it’s easy to think they’re the same thing. But rest assured, they’re entirely different ingredients. Let’s break it down so you can feel at ease and continue enjoying our products without worry.
Quick answer: Silica and Silicones are different
Silica is a naturally occurring compound, while silicones are man-made, synthetic ingredients.
What is silica?
Silica’s scientific name is Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂). It’s a natural compound made of silicon (Si) and oxygen (O₂)—two of the earth’s most abundant materials.
The silica we use is derived from nature, where it starts as a mineral in powder form. It’s also water-soluble, meaning it breaks down and disperses in water.
What are silicones?
Silicones, on the other hand, are synthetic polymers made in a lab. Their chemical structure differs entirely from silica. Silicones can appear in various forms, such as:
- Fluids (often found in primers for that "slippery" feel)
- Resins
- Flexible, rubber-like solids (used for waterproofing cosmetics like mascaras or foundations)
Silicones are engineered to create a smooth, waterproof barrier on the skin or hair, which is why they’re often found in long-wear or waterproof products. However, this can sometimes feel heavy or block pores, which is why many people prefer to avoid them.
Why do we use silica?
Silica is a versatile, natural ingredient that brings several amazing benefits to our formulations:
- Improves Texture: Silica is ultra-fine and lightweight, giving creams, powders, and concealers a smooth, silky finish.
- Oil Absorption: It helps absorb excess oil, leaving the skin with a soft, matte look—perfect for a natural, non-greasy appearance.
- Blurs Imperfections: Silica can scatter light, reducing the appearance of fine lines, pores, and uneven texture.
- Skin-Friendly: Unlike silicones, silica doesn’t form an impermeable barrier. It allows your skin to breathe while enhancing the product’s performance.
Why do people confuse silica and silicones?
It all comes down to the name.
The word “silica” sounds a lot like “silicone,” but that’s where the similarity ends. Here’s a quick comparison to help you spot the difference:
| Feature | Silica | Silicone |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Naturally derived | Man-made/synthetic |
| Form | Powder | Fluid, resin, or rubber |
| Solubility | Water-soluble | Not water-soluble (waterproof) |
| Skin Feel | Lightweight, breathable | Slippery, sometimes occlusive |
| Purpose | Smooth texture, oil absorption, blurring | Waterproofing, long-wear effect |
Are your products truly silicone-free?
Yes! Every product we formulate is completely free of silicones. Our focus is on natural, skin-friendly ingredients that not only perform beautifully but also align with your preferences for wudhu-friendly and halal makeup.
When we use silica in products like our cream concealers, it’s there to enhance the experience—making the product smoother, lighter, and more effective.
Still have questions?
I hope this clears up any confusion! But if you still have questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. I love hearing from you and want to make sure you feel confident in every product you use.
