Silicones are synthetic compounds that are used in hair care and cosmetics as an ingredient to improve texture, shine, and manageability. They are a type of polymer made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. Silicones are often listed on ingredient labels with names ending in "-cone," "-conol," or "-siloxane."

As the hair care industry shifts towards using more "clean" and "natural" ingredients, many previously popular ingredients are coming under scrutiny for their potential negative effects on hair. Substances such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates have been blacklisted by the clean beauty movement, and now, silicones are being called into question as well.

To uncover the truth about silicones, we asked experts for their professional opinion. We wanted them to explain what silicones are, what they do, and whether they are truly as harmful as some people claim.

Here's how they explained this.

The safety of silicones in hair care and cosmetics is still a matter of debate and research. Silicones are a class of polymers, which are large molecules that share similarities with plastic. They possess flexibility and can be molded to suit various purposes.

In the realm of hair care products, silicones serve as a coating agent that provides extra softness, slip, and protection to the hair. They are known to lock in moisture, minimize frizz, and enhance the overall shine of the hair. For people with coarse, curly, dry, or frizzy hair, silicones can help manage unruly strands by smoothing them out and making them more manageable.

Essentially, silicones act as a protective barrier against external factors that damage hair, creating a waterproof layer around each strand but is that what we really want?

Some studies suggest that prolonged use of silicone-laden products may lead to hair damage and skin irritation.

One of the primary concerns with silicones in hair care products is that they can build up on the hair over time, leading to weighed-down, greasy, or dull-looking hair. This build-up can be difficult to remove and can cause the hair to become more prone to breakage and damage.

In addition, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to silicones. This is because the silicone film on the skin can trap dirt and sweat, leading to clogged pores and irritation.

Ultimately, the effects of prolonged use of silicone-laden hair care and cosmetic products may vary from person to person. While it is important to be aware of any potential negative effects and to choose products that work best for your individual needs and preferences, the extent to our silicone elimination is a personal choice.

There are alternatives to silicone-based hair care and cosmetics, such as those made with natural oils or plant-based ingredients. These options may be gentler on the hair and skin, while also being more environmentally friendly. When choosing products, it can be helpful to read the ingredient labels and do research on the specific ingredients to determine which products may be best for your individual needs and preferences.

Then, there is Just Clean Hair™. Formulated by Tiffany Twist to keep her Soft Bond Strands® hair extensions lasting long and strong, this Silicone-Free Hair Care Line is for anyone and creating buzz in the hair care community.