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PEG-9 DIMETHICONE.

Valuable / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

PEG-9 Dimethicone is a versatile silicone-based ingredient that functions as an emulsifier, expertly blending water and silicone components into stable cosmetic formulations. It also acts as an emollient and skin conditioning agent, enhancing skin smoothness and hydration, while contributing to desirable product textures.

Summary

Silicone emulsifier Emollient Skin conditioning agent Viscosity controlling agent Surfactant Dispersant

Science

Mechanism of Action

PEG-9 Dimethicone operates by forming stable emulsions, effectively linking water and silicone-based ingredients. On the skin, it provides a conditioning effect, imparting smoothness and softness while helping to retain moisture by forming a protective layer. Its surfactant properties enable it to aid in cleansing by lifting dirt and oils. Furthermore, this ingredient enhances the penetration of other active compounds and acts as an efficient dispersant for powders, such as mineral UV filters and pigments, ensuring even application and reducing white-cast in formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 0.2–6%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5.5 – 8.5
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal formulation stability is generally observed between pH 5.5 and 8.5. Hydrolysis can occur outside this range; for a related PEG-8 dimethicone at 1% active, 20% hydrolysis was noted after 45 days at pH 5 and after 86 days at pH 8. This ingredient exhibits heat tolerance, however, sustained exposure to temperatures above 80°C should be avoided.

Synergies

  • Enhances penetration of other active ingredients
  • Improves dispersion of mineral UV filters and color pigments

Conflicts

  • Temperatures exceeding 80°C
  • Formulation pH outside the 5.5-8.5 range over extended periods

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that dimethicone crosspolymer ingredients, including PEG-9 DIMETHICONE, are safe at their current concentrations and uses. While an oral LD50 of >5000 mg/kg in rats showed no adverse effects, a 2014 CIR report indicated it was a mild ocular irritant to rabbits. Similar ingredients like Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone have been reviewed as safe in products containing 0.2-6%. PEG-9 DIMETHICONE is approved by both EU and US FDA regulations for cosmetic use, and the EWG Skin Deep® database rates it with low concern for cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-9 DIMETHICONE is a valuable ingredient, effectively stabilizing emulsions and enhancing formulation aesthetics, while providing proven skin conditioning benefits across all skin types with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity.

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