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Silicones are ubiquitous in personal care products with good
reason. The variety of silicone materials available and their
unique performance characteristics make them beneficial for a
wide range of cosmetic applications. Decades of scientific
research, combined with actual experience in market
applications, have provided a large knowledge base relevant to
safety and environmental aspects of silicones. The materials
science of silicones is also well-developed and has enabled an
understanding of the relationship between fundamental
physical/chemical properties and bulk material properties. This
article attempts to summarize important aspects of these
relationships, specifically with respect to safety and
environmental considerations associated with personal care
products. Linking key performance characteristics at a macro
level with underlying chemistry on a molecular scale can provide
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