Ingredient Breakdown: All Things Silicones

<h1>Silicon is not silicone?</h1> <p>Yes, there is a difference! Silicon is a natural chemical element and is the second most abundant element in the Earth&rsquo;s crust (after oxygen). Due to its high affinity for oxygen, silicon often exists as silicon dioxide or silica powder found in sand and dust formations. It is prevalent in the personal care industry and construction, pottery, and masonry.</p> <p>Silicon is so abundant that it is said to be an essential element to humans. In some&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pnas.org/content/pnas/96/2/361.full.pdf" rel="noopener ugc nofollow" target="_blank">microorganisms and sea sponges</a>, silica is used as a structural source. In humans, it is a necessity for the making of elastin and collagen in the body. It is, however, considered a hazardous material when inhaled, and is generally considered a slight irritant in its pure form.</p> <p><a href="https://medium.com/think-dirty/ingredient-breakdown-all-things-silicones-a5361d0a4e97"><strong>Learn More</strong></a></p>