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PEG-12 DIMETHICONE.

Valuable / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

PEG-12 Dimethicone is a versatile silicone-polyether copolymer that significantly enhances product texture and skin hydration. It functions as an emollient, emulsifier, and skin conditioning agent, improving spreadability and delivering a smooth, non-greasy finish.

Summary

Emollient Hair Conditioning Skin Conditioning Emulsifying Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as a silicone-polyether copolymer, demonstrating amphiphilic properties with both hydrophobic silicone and hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chains. On the skin, it forms a breathable film that actively locks in moisture, thereby preventing transepidermal water loss and contributing to enhanced hydration, elasticity, and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines. Its unique structure enables it to depress surface tension, act as a wetting agent, and stabilize emulsions, leading to improved product aesthetics and a silky, non-greasy sensory experience.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–5%
Optimal

0.1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Effective for general skincare applications such as lotions, gels, and creams, with recommended use levels spanning 0.1% to 5%.
  2. 02 Optimal concentrations for non-rinseable skin treatments range from 0.1% to 2%, promoting a conditioning effect.
  3. 03 For targeted caring skin products, a concentration range of 0.1% to 3% is recommended.
  4. 04 In lightweight serums, a concentration around 1% is effective, while richer creams may utilize up to 5%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Information regarding 'dusting' properties for PEG-12 Dimethicone is not available in the provided research data.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-12 Dimethicone is soluble in water, ethanol, and hydro-alcoholic systems. It exhibits stability in neutral, mildly acidic, and alkaline aqueous solutions, though strong acids or alkalis may reduce its stability. It generally tolerates varying pH levels and temperature extremes. For optimal integration, add during the emulsification phase using moderate mixing speeds, avoiding temperatures exceeding 60°C when incorporating into the water phase.

Conflicts

  • Stearal alcohol
  • Stearic acid
  • IPM
  • Beeswax
  • Glycerol
  • Lanolin
  • Mineral Oil
  • Paraffin wax
  • Dimethicone (350cSt)
  • Wax
  • Medium viscosity oils

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
6.5%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel confirmed PEG-12 Dimethicone as safe for cosmetic use up to a maximum concentration of 6.5%. Regulatory bodies including the U.S. FDA and the EU's SCCS also generally deem it safe at recommended concentrations. While considered safe for healthy skin, caution is advised for use on broken or irritated skin due to the potential presence of impurities such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-12 Dimethicone is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, enhancing hydration, improving product aesthetics, and ensuring broad skin compatibility with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity.

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