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PEG-8 METHICONE.

Valuable / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

PEG-8 Methicone is a synthetic polymer that acts as a precision emollient and skin replenishing agent, forming a protective barrier to enhance hydration, minimize transepidermal water loss, and refine skin texture.

Summary

Skin conditioning - emollient Hair conditioning Hydration lock Replenishing agent Texture enhancer Mattifying agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by creating a breathable, non-occlusive film on the skin's surface, which effectively reduces moisture evaporation and thus locks in hydration. This action contributes to a noticeably softer and smoother skin feel. In formulations, it is recognized for improving the sensory experience by reducing stickiness and can cosmetically diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while imparting a desirable matte finish.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 0.024–5.6%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

PEG-8 Methicone is a functionally active ingredient with established benefits and a well-defined safe use concentration range (0.024%-5.6%), indicating its inclusion in formulations is typically for its intended emollient and conditioning properties rather than minimal, ineffective amounts.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5.5 – 8.5
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient maintains optimal stability within a functional pH range of 5.5 to 8.5. Hydrolysis rates are influenced by pH and concentration; for instance, at 1% active, 20% hydrolysis occurred in 45 days at pH 5, compared to 86 days at pH 8. For hot-processed formulations, PEG-8 Methicone should be incorporated only after the mixture has cooled below 50°C (122°F) to ensure stability.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5.6%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed PEG-8 Dimethicone and related polymers safe for cosmetic use within current concentrations and practices, provided the formulation is non-irritating, with assessed concentrations up to 5.6% being safe. It is considered non-toxic and non-comedogenic. The EWG rates it low for concerns regarding cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, and developmental/reproductive toxicity. However, due to manufacturing processes, trace impurities of ethylene oxide (<1 ppm) and 1,4-dioxane (<10ppm), both substances known to the State of California to cause cancer, may be present.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-8 Methicone is a valuable polyfunctional ingredient, enhancing skin hydration, texture, and feel across all skin types, demonstrating a strong safety profile within established concentration limits despite potential trace impurities.

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