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PEG/PPG-6/11 DIMETHICONE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG/PPG-6/11 Dimethicone is an alkoxylated dimethicone derivative primarily functioning as a versatile surfactant and emulsifying agent. It facilitates the stable blending of oil and water components in formulations, while also enhancing skin feel. On the skin, it provides conditioning, emollient, and humectant benefits.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifying Agent Conditioning Agent Humectant Emollient Film-forming Agent Emulsion Stabilizer Plasticizer Anti-foaming Agent Cleansing Agent Anti-caking Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by acting as a surfactant and emulsifier, effectively bridging oil and water phases due to its unique alkoxylated polysiloxane structure. When applied to the skin, it creates a smooth, silky film that conditions and moisturizes, acting as both an emollient and a humectant. Its film-forming properties contribute to more even distribution, potentially faster absorption, and improved protection of other active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient is generally considered stable. As an alkoxy polysiloxane with a PEG moiety, its solubility can vary significantly—from insoluble to soluble in water and alcohols—depending on its specific molecular composition, though it often exhibits hydrophilic tendencies.

Conflicts

  • As a silicone, it can act as a defoaming agent, which may be undesirable in formulations where foaming or lather is a desired characteristic.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

PEG/PPG-6/11 Dimethicone falls under the broader 'Dimethicone Copolyol' category, which was assessed as 'safe as used' by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel in 1982 and reaffirmed in 2005. Clinical studies on related Dimethicone Copolyol compounds at concentrations up to 40% in aqueous solutions and undiluted demonstrated no primary skin irritation or sensitization. However, in 2014, the CIR identified specific data gaps for certain ingredients within this class, including PEG/PPG-6/11 Dimethicone, regarding precise molecular weight ranges, potential impurities, dermal penetration, and specific irritation/sensitization data. While dimethicone-based compounds are generally considered non-comedogenic, an elevated safety score may be associated with inhalable product forms (e.g., sprays) due to potential respiratory concerns, or if there's a risk of toxic impurities.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG/PPG-6/11 Dimethicone is a valuable, multi-functional ingredient that enhances formulation stability, improves skin feel, and supports the efficient delivery of active compounds, generally exhibiting a low risk profile across various skin types.

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