What Is Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane?
Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane is a specialty silicone that also contains fluorine atoms, giving it a unique mix of lightweight slip and water resistance. Chemically, it is known as Triethoxy(3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8-tridecafluorooctyl)silane, a name that reflects its silane backbone joined to a short perfluorinated chain. The ingredient is synthetically produced by reacting a fluorinated alcohol with a silane compound, followed by purification to remove unreacted materials. This lab-made process ensures a consistent, high-purity material suitable for skin care.
Fluorinated silanes first gained attention in the electronics industry for their ability to repel water, then formulators noticed the same property could improve the feel and durability of cosmetics. Over the past two decades, suppliers refined the ingredient for personal care, focusing on safety and skin feel.
You will most often spot Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane in lightweight primers, long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, setting sprays, matte lip colors and some oil-free moisturizers. Its silky finish and moisture-blocking ability make it popular in products that promise long-lasting wear without heaviness.
Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves more than one job inside a formula, allowing chemists to streamline their ingredient lists while boosting performance.
- Binding: Helps pigments and other solid particles stick together and stay evenly suspended, which keeps makeup from separating and improves color payoff throughout the day
- Skin Conditioning: Creates a thin breathable film that leaves skin feeling soft and smooth, adds a silky slip during application and helps lock in lightweight hydration without greasiness
Who Can Use Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane
Because this ingredient is lightweight and non occlusive, it tends to agree with most skin types including oily, combination, normal and even some sensitive skins. Dry skin can also benefit since the silky film helps limit moisture loss, but it is not a heavy emollient so extremely dry or compromised skin may need richer support alongside it.
The molecule itself is synthetic and contains no animal derived matter, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished formula is free of animal byproducts.
No specific warnings exist for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Topical use is considered low risk, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear all skincare products with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane does not increase sun sensitivity, and it can even add slight water repellency that helps sunscreens stay on longer. It has no known conflicts with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide or retinoids so it fits easily into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane differ from person to person. The points below outline possible though uncommon side effects when the ingredient is used in properly formulated products. Most people will not notice any of these issues.
- Mild skin redness or warmth brief flushing in those with very reactive skin
- Transient stinging short lived tingle if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Contact dermatitis rare allergic response presenting as itch or rash
- Eye irritation watering or discomfort if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any irritation or unusual reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane earns a very low comedogenic score because its fluorinated silicone structure is lightweight, non greasy and forms a breathable film that does not sink into pores. The molecule is too large and chemically inert to mix with skin sebum which lowers the chance of blockage.
In most formulas it is considered safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Real world results still depend on the full product, so heaviness from other ingredients or very high use levels could tip the scale for some users.
Summary
Perfluorohexylethyl Triethoxysilane acts mainly as a binder and a skin conditioning agent. It clings to pigments and solids so makeup stays even and long wearing, while its silky film smooths the skin surface and adds subtle water resistance. This combo lets chemists cut back on heavier oils without sacrificing performance.
The ingredient sits in a niche corner of cosmetics, showing up most often in long wear or waterproof makeup rather than everyday creams, yet brands that use it value its feather light feel and durability.
Current safety data rates it as low risk for irritation, allergy or pore blockage. As with any new skincare or makeup product it is smart to do a small patch test before regular use just to confirm personal tolerance.