Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions as an amphiphilic silicone polymer, incorporating both water-soluble (PEG) and silicone-soluble (Dimethicone) components. The Dimethicone portion establishes a protective, hydrophobic film on the skin's surface, which significantly minimizes trans-epidermal water loss, effectively locking in moisture and improving skin hydration. This barrier additionally offers a degree of protection against environmental irritants. As an emollient, it smoothes the skin's texture, contributing to a softer feel and diminished appearance of fine lines. The PEG-7 component ensures its water-dispersibility, making it suitable for a diverse array of cosmetic formulations, including rinse-off products. Furthermore, it acts as a hair conditioning agent, promoting manageability, suppleness, softness, and shine.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
No data available in the provided research to suggest this ingredient is commonly 'dusted' or provides thresholds for such concerns.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Optimal formulation stability for similar PEG-Dimethicone ingredients is typically observed within a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5. Hydrolysis rates demonstrate increased stability at higher pH; for example, at 1% active, 20% hydrolysis occurred in 45 days at pH 5, compared to 86 days at pH 8. Therefore, maintaining a pH of 5.0 or above is generally recommended for robust storage stability. The PEG moiety enables water-dispersibility and solubility in water and alcohols.
Conflicts
- Carbomer-based thickeners (potential disruption due to lactate component)
- Certain non-polar organic and silicone solvents (may result in insolubility for PEG-Dimethicone)
- High concentrations of humectants (risk of contributing to a sticky or tacky skin feel)
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Dimethicone and its related polymers, including PEG-Dimethicone variants, are safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. Due to its substantial molecular weight, significant dermal absorption is considered unlikely. Clinical and animal studies on Dimethicone indicate no acute toxicity, minimal dermal irritation, and no sensitization, even at concentrations up to 79% (undiluted) or 5.0% in human patch tests. The FDA lists Dimethicone as a skin protectant. While PEG compounds may carry a theoretical risk of manufacturing contaminants, Moumoujus rigorously selects suppliers to ensure product purity and safety. No specific SCCS opinion for DIMETHICONE PEG-7 LACTATE was found, though Dimethicone itself has been reviewed.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
DIMETHICONE PEG-7 LACTATE is a valuable ingredient, effectively providing skin hydration and a smoother texture through its occlusive and emollient properties, with a low risk of irritation and broad skin compatibility.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources
- specialchem.com ↗
- incidecoder.com ↗
- medicalnewstoday.com ↗
- patsnap.com ↗
- prose.com ↗
- cosmeticsandtoiletries.com ↗
- cir-safety.org ↗
- cosmileeurope.eu ↗
- nih.gov ↗
- ireadlabelsforyou.com ↗
- ewg.org ↗
- europa.eu ↗
- googleapis.com ↗
- reddit.com ↗
- allanchem.com ↗