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PEG/PPG-12/18 DIMETHICONE.

Valuable / ANTIFOAMING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

This advanced silicone polymer is a highly versatile ingredient, primarily functioning as an emulsifier to create stable combinations of oil and water in formulations. It also acts as a sophisticated skin-conditioning agent, delivering emollient properties and enhancing overall skin feel.

Summary

Emulsifying Skin-conditioning Antifoaming Slip modifier Solvent Moisturizer Improves water-resistance of sunscreens Forms breathable protective barrier Reduces tackiness/stickiness

Science

Mechanism of Action

PEG/PPG-12/18 Dimethicone operates by significantly reducing interfacial tension, making it an effective emulsifier, particularly for water-in-silicone (W/Si) emulsions. On the skin, it forms a breathable, protective film that contributes emollient benefits and improves skin texture by reducing tackiness and enhancing slip. Additionally, it helps to stabilize light-sensitive ingredients and enhances the water-resistance of sunscreen formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical studies detailed in a CIR report demonstrated that Dimethicone Copolyol, a broader category encompassing PEG/PPG Dimethicones, was non-irritating when tested on 39 subjects, both undiluted and at a 40% aqueous solution. Further volunteer testing on 201 individuals confirmed its non-irritating and non-sensitizing properties.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG/PPG-12/18 Dimethicone exhibits excellent hydrolytic stability across a broad pH range. It is a key emulsifier for creating and stabilizing water-in-silicone (W/Si) emulsions, typically incorporated at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 10% by weight, though usage can extend from 0.001% up to 15%. In alcoholic foamable compositions, it may be present as a silicone surfactant from 0.5% to 20% by weight.

Synergies

  • Emulsion stability can be significantly enhanced when combined with stearalkonium hectorite, particularly at a minimum ratio of 2:1.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed PEG/PPG-12/18 Dimethicone, within the broader category of Dimethicone Copolyol, as 'safe as used,' a conclusion reaffirmed in 2005. Assessments have consistently shown it to be non-irritating, even in undiluted forms and 40% aqueous solutions, and non-sensitizing to human skin.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG/PPG-12/18 Dimethicone is a valuable, multifaceted ingredient, essential for formulating stable emulsions while simultaneously providing significant skin conditioning benefits and an excellent safety profile across all skin types.

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