Are silicone based hair products harmful in any way? Also, do they wash off well with shampoo?

I read somewhere that silicone can weeken hair shaft if used too often, as the layer of silicone oil prevents hair from ';breathing';. It's confusing.Are silicone based hair products harmful in any way? Also, do they wash off well with shampoo?
They are ok to use, but when washing your hair mix a little baking soda with your shampoo. That will strip your hair of any impurities and the silicone build up on your hair. I took a continuing edu. class once and they told us that products like Thermasilk that contain silicone is not good for your hair, but that it would not damage it beyond anything you could fix with a good moisturizing treatment. Silicone is great if you are using any kind of thermal styling aids ( such as a straightener or curling irons) because it saves the hair from any heat styling damage. So go ahead and use the silicone based products, you will be ok.Are silicone based hair products harmful in any way? Also, do they wash off well with shampoo?
the ONLY THING THAT SILICONE DOES IS COAT THE HAIR...AND NO, THEY DO NOT WASH OFF EASILY...YOU WILL NEED TO BUY A GOOD CLARIFYING SHAMPOO AND WASH YOUR HAIR WITH IT AT LEAST TWICE A WEEK
They aren't harmful, and they make your hair silky and shiny. Like any other product they can cause buildup though, so be sure to use a clarifying shampoo once in awhile. Otherwise your normal shampoo works fine for everyday.
Correct! Pantene products have lots of silicone so that the hair cuticle lays flat while killing it really. I tried it and at first it was heavan touching my hair and then it turned to straw. :-(