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Dimethiconol

Dimethiconol with terminal hydroxyl groups is a "smart" silicone that independently forms cross-linked films on the hair surface. It has a stronger conditioning effect than regular dimethicone. It is a key component in products for restoring and protecting damaged hair.

OH-siliconeHair restorationFilmConditioner

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Dimethiconol — hydroxy-functional polydimethylsiloxane with OH groups at both ends of the chain. INCI: Dimethiconol. Molecular weight ranges from 1000 to 1,000,000 Da. The OH groups allow for hydrogen bonding with the hair and skin surface → better adhesion compared to regular dimethicone. At high MW (~1,000,000) — elastomeric consistency. It can cross-link with other silicones when heated — forming silicone elastomers. INCI often: Dimethiconol (or Bis-Hydroxy/Methoxy Amodimethicone for functionalized versions).

Conditioners for severely damaged hair, anti-breakage products, hair botox — products focused on restoring and protecting the hair structure.

Key Benefits

✦

Durable protective film on the hair surface

The OH groups of dimethiconol allow the molecule to adsorb onto the hair more firmly than regular dimethicone. Under certain conditions (temperature, washing), it can form partial cross-links between molecules → a more durable protective layer. The film remains after 2–3 washes (with the correct concentration and pH of the formula), while dimethicone is almost completely washed out.

◈

Restoration of tactile properties of damaged hair

Damage to the cuticle (chemical treatment, UV, heat) leads to increased friction between hair strands and stiffness. Dimethiconol fills in cuticle defects and restores a "healthy" tactile feel: smoothness, elasticity, slipperiness during wet combing. The effect is stronger than that of dimethicone due to better adhesion from the OH groups.

✧

Thermal protection during styling

The thin silicone film of Dimethiconol reduces heat transfer from styling tools to the hair structure. At 230°C with a straightener: unprotected hair loses moisture and proteins significantly faster. Dimethiconol is one of the standard components in heat protection sprays and creams for thermal protection.

Suitable for

Damaged hairColored hairBrittle hair

Main Actions

✓ Cuticle restoration✓ Protective film (OH-adhesion)✓ Thermal protection

Dimethiconol vs Dimethicone vs Amodimethicone

Dimethicone (—CH₃ ends) — the most common, passive film, good slip. Dimethiconol (—OH ends) — better adhesion, more durable film, slightly heavier. Amodimethicone (—NH₂ groups) — cationic, adheres to damaged areas, selective repair. For severely damaged hair: amodimethicone (selective) + dimethiconol (overall protection). For fine hair: dimethicone (lighter).

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