On October 28, 2026, Givaudan Active Beauty announced the launch of SensoTrue DM5, a bio-based emolient developed as an alternative to DM5 silicone. The ingredient, made with a combination of white biotechnology and green chemistry, offers premium sensory performance with an improved environmental profile.
According to the company’s press release, SensoTrue DM5 provides an innovative emollient complex engineered from sugarcane and upcycled pine terpenes. The unique multi-molecular structure mimics traditional silicones with naturally derived ingredients.
“SensoTrue DM5 demonstrates how biotechnology can open up new possibilities for high-performance, naturally derived hair care ingredients,” said Fabrice Lefèvre, innovation and marketing director at Givaudan Active Beauty. “By combining renewable resources, green chemistry and advanced molecular design, we are enabling brands to meet consumer expectations for a premium hair care experience, without compromising their environmental commitments.”
In company tests, SensoTrue DM5 delivered significant improvement in hair performance and outperformed both 5 cSt dimethicone and D5. Further, consumer tests confirmed the results with over 85% of participants seeing visible efficacy after one use and 88% reporting healthier hair after the days.
SensoTrue DM5 is suitable for shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, leave-in treatments and styling products. The ingredient is odorless, colorless and free of preservatives.
“SensoTrue DM5 marks a significant milestone in hair care innovation, combining proven silicone-like performance with a bio-based, upcycled composition, setting a new reference for the next generation of high-performance formulations,” the company stated in its press release.
