Silicone in Black Hair Products - Good or Bad?

With all the talk about whether using silicone in hair products is a good or bad thing, I decided to offer my take on it and insights based on my experience. First, let’s define what they are. Silicone ingredients are either, Dimethicone or Cyclomethicone  -- commonly referred to as the “cones.”
 
From my research about silicones over the years, I have learned that because of their molecular properties, silicones are both porous and resistant to air. This allows them to form a “breathable” barrier on the hair. In other words, silicones provide an outer layer of protection on the hair while at the same time allowing needed products to seep through to the inner hair layers. The unique fluid properties of silicone give it a great deal of slip, and in its various forms it can noticeably enhance the texture and appearance of your hair by giving it the look and feel of silk. Silicone can also help keep the hair from drying out by sealing in moisture without making the hair feel heavy and weighed down.
From my experience with the daily use of silicones in my hair products for almost ten years now, I have personally enjoyed the following benefits:

Easier wet and dry combing
Increased shine and luster
Soft, silky feel and appearance
Keeps hair moist and light
Non-greasy
Sealant and heat resistant
Protects hair from heat damage

I do recommend, however, that when using silicones you should periodically use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildups. Be aware that if you co-wash your hair, (wash your hair without using shampoo), you will experience buildups a lot quicker than if you shampoo. Still, my bottom-line take on this issue is that the “good” results of incorporating silicone products into your hair care routine far outweigh the “bad” opinions.
 
Reference:  The Chemistry and Manufacture of Cosmetics, Volume 3, Book 2, Allured Publishing Corporation, 2002.