Application
Color Cosmetics
Silicone Selection for Long-Wear and Transfer-Resistant Color
Silicones in color cosmetics are used to anchor pigments in long-wear, transfer-resistant films, wet and disperse pigments evenly, stabilize water-in-silicone foundations and give makeup a smooth, soft-focus finish with a weightless feel. Manta’s color cosmetics silicones cover MQ and MQ-T resins, pigment-wetting fluids, silicone emulsifiers, elastomer gels, spherical PMSQ powder and volatile carriers for foundations, primers, cushions, lip and eye products.
Long-Wear Film Formers: Silicone Resins
All-day wear is now a baseline expectation: consumers want transfer resistance, humidity stability and a weightless feel. The film-forming system is the core of any long-wear formula, keeping high pigment loads stable, breathable and visually consistent from application to removal.
A202
Solid MQ Resin
Manta A202 (Trimethylsiloxysilicate) is a pure solid MQ resin supplied as a white powder. It forms a highly cross-linked, rigid three-dimensional network on the skin that anchors pigments and UV filters, prevents migration into fine lines and resists the mechanical stress of daily wear.
Trimethylsiloxysilicate →A203
Ready-to-Use Resin Solutions
For liquid formulations, Manta A203 (Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Cyclopentasiloxane), with a viscosity of 300–500 mPa·s, delivers comparable performance in ready-to-use form with an optimized volatility profile: smooth application followed by rapid, tack-free film formation.
Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Cyclopentasiloxane →A2024
MQ-T Propyl Hybrid Resin
For clean-beauty formulations, Manta A2024 (Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Polypropylsilsesquioxane), an MQ-T propyl resin hybrid available in flake and powder form, delivers comparable durability through an internal plasticizer effect. It forms a soft-touch film with strong compatibility with organic oils and UV filters and dissolves in low-viscosity silicone oils.
Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Polypropylsilsesquioxane →Pigment Wetting and Dispersion
High pigment loading only delivers color intensity when particles are fully wetted and dispersed. Both ingredients below are most effective when pre-milled directly with the pigments before they are added to the bulk phase.
F1230
Carbinol-Functional Compatibilizer
Manta F1230 (Bishydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone) is a carbinol-functional compatibilizer that bridges the polarity gap between silicone oil phases and organic pigments, preventing agglomeration and keeping color consistent.
Bishydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone →F1012
Low-Viscosity Alkyl Silicone Wetting Agent
Manta F1012 (Lauryl Dimethicone), with a viscosity of 2.0–6.0 mPa·s, is a low-viscosity alkyl silicone wetting agent that coats pigment particles rapidly, improving color yield in foundations, concealers and lip products.
Lauryl Dimethicone →W/Si Emulsifiers for Foundations, BB Creams and Cushions
Stable, high-water-content emulsions form the structural backbone of BB creams, CC creams and liquid foundations.
E1011
Universal W/O and W/Si Emulsifier
Manta E1011 (Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone) is a universal W/O and W/Si silicone emulsifier with strong pigment dispersion capability—functionally comparable to Evonik ABIL EM 90.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone →E1035
Water-Burst Cushion Emulsifier
For cushion compacts and water-burst foundations that need a vivid water-release skin feel, Manta E1035 (Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, functionally comparable to Shin-Etsu KF-6038) offers cold-process compatibility and precise sensory control.
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone →E1036
Low-Dosage Liquid Foundation Emulsifier
Manta E1036 (PEG-10 Dimethicone, comparable to Dow ES-5612) provides high emulsifying efficiency in liquid foundations at low dosage, producing a silky, non-sticky finish at levels as low as 1.0–4.0%.
PEG-10 Dimethicone →Texture and Soft Focus: Silicone Elastomer Gels and Silicone Powder
A consistent finish depends on light-scattering ingredients working together with tactile performance.
G700-P3
Elastomer Gels for Primers and Foundations
Manta G700 (Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone Crosspolymer) and Manta G700-P3 (Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer) are elastomer gels in a volatile cyclopentasiloxane carrier, each with a non-volatile content of at least 14%. They deliver the velvety, cushioning skin feel used in primers and foundations, physically filling surface imperfections while leaving a powdery, pore-minimizing finish.
Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer →PMSQ
Spherical Silicone Powder for Soft-Focus Makeup
Combined with an elastomer gel, Manta PMSQ (Polymethylsilsesquioxane)—spherical silicone resin microspheres with an average particle size of 2–4 μm—creates a true soft-focus optical effect. Omnidirectional light scattering visually minimizes pores and fine lines without the occlusive weight of traditional pressed powders, which suits makeup bases and primers.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane →Volatile Silicones for Fast-Dry Application
The carrier fluid determines the application experience: how long the formula stays workable and how quickly it sets.
F1006 1.5cSt
Linear Volatile Carriers
Manta F1006 1.5 cSt (Dimethicone), a decamethyltetrasiloxane fluid of 1.4–1.6 cSt, is a linear (non-cyclic) volatile alternative to D5 with a comparable moderate evaporation profile and silky dry-down, suited to liquid foundations and makeup primers in markets that restrict cyclic silicones. Manta F1043 (Methyl Trimethicone), with a viscosity of 1.25–1.75 cSt, is also a non-cyclic volatile alternative to D5 and provides fast flash-off for quick-dry eyeliners and mascaras.
Dimethicone →F1049
Cyclohexasiloxane for Extended Play Time
For formulas that need more play time before they set, Manta F1049 (Cyclohexasiloxane), a D6 cyclic volatile silicone of 4.0–8.0 cSt, offers a slower, controlled evaporation curve. Like D4 and D5, D6 is listed as a substance of very high concern (SVHC) under EU REACH, so confirm its regulatory status in each target market.
Cyclohexasiloxane →Recommended Manta Silicones for Color Cosmetics
| Function | Manta Grade | INCI | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard film former (solid) | A202 | Trimethylsiloxysilicate | Transfer resistance, pigment anchoring |
| Film former (ready-to-use) | A203 | Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Cyclopentasiloxane | Fast-drying, tack-free film |
| Flexible film former | A203B | Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Dimethicone | Moist, non-cracking cushion film |
| Soft-touch hybrid film former | A2024 | Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Polypropylsilsesquioxane | Internal plasticizer effect, organic oil and UV filter compatible |
| Pigment compatibilizer | F1230 | Bishydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone | Prevents agglomeration, color consistency |
| Pigment wetting agent | F1012 | Lauryl Dimethicone | Rapid pigment wetting, color yield |
| W/O and W/Si emulsifier | E1011 | Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone | Universal emulsification, pigment dispersion |
| Cushion emulsifier | E1035 | Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone | Water-burst skin feel, cold process |
| Liquid foundation emulsifier | E1036 | PEG-10 Dimethicone | High emulsifying efficiency, silky finish |
| Elastomer gel (volatile carrier) | G700 | Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone Crosspolymer | Velvety, powdery, pore-minimizing |
| Elastomer gel (vinyl crosspolymer) | G700-P3 | Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer | Cushioning feel for primers and foundations |
| Soft-focus powder | PMSQ | Polymethylsilsesquioxane | Light scattering, 2–4 μm spheres |
| Volatile carrier (linear D5 alternative) | F1006 1.5cSt | Dimethicone | Moderate evaporation, silky dry-down |
| Fast flash-off carrier | F1043 | Methyl Trimethicone | Quick-dry eyeliners and mascaras |
| Slow-evaporating carrier | F1049 | Cyclohexasiloxane | Extended play time before set |
Also Suitable for Color Cosmetics
Additional grades whose technical data sheet lists color cosmetics among their application areas.
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G701A (Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer)
Oil-phase thickening and soft focus — Liquid foundations, makeup primers, and bases
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G703B (Dimethicone (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer)
Non-cyclic elastomer cushion — Liquid foundations, makeup primers, and BB/CC creams (provides a smooth, matte canvas)
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W341 (Cetyl Dimethicone)
Liquid alkyl silicone emollient — Lipsticks and lip glosses (improves shine and glide), Foundations (improves adhesion)
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F1045 (Cyclopentasiloxane)
Volatile cyclic carrier — Liquid foundations, concealers, and makeup primers
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F1048 (Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Cyclohexasiloxane)
Volatile cyclic carrier (slow flash-off) — Liquid foundations and concealers (ensures seamless blending and a smooth finish without drying too quickly)
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F10451 (Cyclotetrasiloxane (and) Cyclopentasiloxane)
Fast-flashing cyclic carrier — Acts as a key volatile carrier in liquid foundations, BB creams, and lip products to ensure a lightweight, easily blendable application
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F1056 (Phenyl Dimethicone)
Phenyl silicone for gloss — Liquid foundations, lipsticks, and other makeup formulations requiring enhanced slip and shine
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F1056A (Phenyl Dimethicone)
Alcohol-soluble phenyl silicone — Liquid foundations, makeup primers, and high-shine lip products
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F10412 (Lauryl Dimethicone)
Alkyl-modified sensory modifier — Liquid foundations and makeup bases (provides a dry, smooth canvas)
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F10161 (Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Dimethicone)
Dimethicone gum blend in D5 carrier — Liquid foundations and makeup primers
Frequently Asked Questions
Which silicone resin works best for long-wear, transfer-resistant makeup?
Manta A202 (Trimethylsiloxysilicate) is a solid MQ resin that forms a rigid, cross-linked network to anchor pigments and resist transfer. For a more flexible, comfortable film, use Manta A203B (Trimethylsiloxysilicate (and) Dimethicone) or the soft-touch MQ-T hybrid Manta A2024.
What is the difference between Manta A203 and A203B?
Both are ready-to-use MQ resin solutions. A203 is carried in cyclopentasiloxane (300–500 mPa·s) for rapid, tack-free film formation, while A203B is carried in dimethicone (400–1,000 cSt) for a flexible, non-cracking film, with no cyclosiloxane in its INCI.
How do elastomer gels and PMSQ powder create a soft-focus finish?
Elastomer gels such as Manta G700 and G700-P3 fill surface imperfections and leave a velvety, powdery finish, while Manta PMSQ microspheres (2–4 μm) scatter light in all directions to visually minimize pores and fine lines. Used together, they give soft-focus optics without the weight of pressed powders.
Can cyclohexasiloxane (D6) replace D5 in makeup?
Manta F1049 (Cyclohexasiloxane) evaporates more slowly and extends play time, but it is itself a cyclic siloxane listed as an SVHC under EU REACH. Where cyclic silicones are restricted, the non-cyclic options on this page are Manta F1006 1.5 cSt and Manta F1043.
Explore Other Applications
Formulating for Color Cosmetics?
Send your formulation system, process temperature and target market. Our technical team will shortlist grades and arrange samples with full documentation.