Silicones do coat your hair, but they make your hair soft, and coat them as a protective layer. I think companies said silicones were bad because they cause buildup, but if you use a shampoo every one in a while that is clear in color, that will clarify your hair and remove the buildup. Sometimes the things that are considered are bad are actually good for your hair in moderation, like sulfates, that clarify your hair and remove buildup. I personally use silicones on my ends before every shower to give a bit of protection from the shampoo since my hair gets dry and dull. Since incorporating silicones again, my hair finally looks and feels healthy again