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LAURYL PEG/PPG-18/18 METHICONE.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING

Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone is a versatile silicone polyether copolymer recognized for its dual functionality as an emulsifier and conditioning agent. It significantly enhances product stability and texture while imparting beneficial properties to both skin and hair.

Summary

Emollient Emulsifying Skin-Conditioning Agent Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates by forming a stable, visco-elastic film at the water/oil interface, which is critical for effective emulsification, particularly in water-in-oil systems. Beyond stabilizing formulations, it improves their textural characteristics, contributing to a non-greasy feel and smooth application. It also provides substantive moisturizing and protective properties, offers wash-off resistance, and acts as a conditioning agent for skin and hair. In certain contexts, it can additionally serve as a mild cleansing agent.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–2%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Recommended for water-in-oil (W/O) creams and lotions at 2.0% concentration, supporting oil phases ranging from 18% to 28% depending on oil polarity.
  2. 02 Effective as a co-emulsifier for oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions within a concentration range of 0.5% to 0.9%.
  3. 03 Utilized at 2.0% in clear conditioning shampoo formulations to deliver conditioning benefits.
  4. 04 Demonstrated a protective and conditioning effect on chemically treated Afro-ethnic hair, enhancing treatment efficacy.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 2 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient exhibits stability under normal processing conditions and is suitable for cold manufacturing. It is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to pH levels below 2 or above 11 in large quantities. For optimized stability in water-in-oil emulsions, a 1% concentration of sodium chloride in the water phase is recommended.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Highly polar materials (should be carefully evaluated when used in formulations targeting low to medium polarity oil phases)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone is safe for use in cosmetics under current intended conditions. Formulators should prioritize purified grades to minimize potential impurities common to PEG compounds, such as 1,4-dioxane. EWG rates this ingredient 'LOW' for concerns regarding cancer, allergies & immunotoxicity, and developmental & reproductive toxicity. Safety data sheets indicate no classification for skin corrosion/irritation, serious eye damage/irritation, or respiratory/skin sensitization.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A highly valuable and well-tolerated silicone polymer, Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone excels at enhancing formulation stability, optimizing texture, and delivering conditioning benefits across a broad spectrum of skincare and haircare applications.

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