Ethyl silicone oil supports green manufacturing and promotes environmental upgrading in the cosmetics industry
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In February 2026, the global cosmetics industry will usher in a "silicone oil revolution". A new environmentally friendly formula with ethyl silicone oil as the core ingredient has successfully passed the EU ECOCERT organic certification. Its biodegradation rate reaches 92%, which is 60% higher than traditional silicone oil products and has become a new favorite of high-end skincare brands.
Environmental Advantage: Reducing Microplastic Pollution from the Source
Traditional silicone oil has long been criticized as one of the sources of microplastic pollution due to its difficulty in degradation. The new type of ethyl silicone oil uses precise molecular weight control technology to reduce the degree of polymerization to below 500, allowing it to be completely decomposed by microorganisms in natural environments. Laboratory simulation tests show that the half-life of the material in seawater is only 180 days, far below the industry standard of 5 years.
Market response: International brands compete to layout
At present, this material has been applied in multiple high-end skincare products, including:
Anti aging essence liquid: use the low surface tension of ethyl silicone oil to improve the penetration efficiency of active ingredients;
Sunscreen: As a film-forming agent, it forms a breathable but dense protective layer, reducing the damage of ultraviolet rays to the skin;
Makeup products: replace traditional talcum powder to achieve more long-lasting makeup effects without the risk of clogged pores.
According to market research institutions' predictions, the global market size of environmentally friendly silicone oil will reach $12 billion by 2026, with ethyl silicone oil accounting for over 35%. Industry analysts believe that as consumers' demand for sustainable beauty continues to grow, ethyl silicone oil is expected to become a core component of the next generation of cosmetic base materials.