Ingredient review

Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone

INCI: BIS-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 DIMETHICONE

A gentle silicone emulsifier that creates smooth, spreadable textures without clogging pores.

beautyskincareemulsifier

In plain English

This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in a product. It's what gives many creams and lotions their smooth, silky feel. Because it's a silicone, it spreads easily on the skin and leaves a soft, non-greasy finish. It's considered very gentle and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation, making it a common choice for sensitive skin formulas.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

4.0Good
4.0/ 5

Potentially useful with some tradeoffs

The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.

Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.

Source
semi synthetic
Evidence
moderate
Irritation
low
Clogging risk
low
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.

Score terms in plain English

Irritation risk

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A modified silicone polymer with both water-loving (PEG/PPG) and oil-loving (dimethicone) parts, allowing it to stabilize mixtures of water and oil in cosmetic products.

How it works

It sits at the boundary between water and oil droplets, reducing surface tension so they blend into a stable, uniform cream or lotion. This prevents the product from separating and gives it a smooth, elegant texture.

Pros

Gentle on skin

Rated very low for irritation and comedogenicity, so it's unlikely to cause breakouts or stinging, even for sensitive skin types.

Improves product feel

Gives creams and sunscreens a silky, spreadable texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy or sticky residue.

Cons and cautions

Silicone content

Some people choose to avoid silicones due to environmental concerns or personal preference, though this ingredient is generally considered safe.

Limited biodegradability

Like many silicones, it may not break down easily in the environment, which is a consideration for eco-conscious consumers.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer
  • People with sensitive or acne-prone skin

Use caution if

  • Those who strictly avoid silicones in their routine

Usage tips

Apply to damp skin to help the product spread more evenly.
Use after water-based serums and before heavier oils or creams for best layering.

Safety summary

Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Research notes

Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that similar silicone emulsifiers are safe as used in cosmetics. Individual studies on this specific compound are limited, but its chemical class is well-studied and considered low-risk.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. Considered safe at typical concentrations by expert panels.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Foundations, Serums
Environmental note
Silicones can persist in the environment. Some manufacturers are moving toward more biodegradable alternatives.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often found in 'silicone-free' labeled products? Actually, it is a silicone, so check labels if you avoid them.
  • It's commonly used in sunscreens to improve spreadability and reduce white cast.

Common questions

What is Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone in beauty products?

This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in a product. It's what gives many creams and lotions their smooth, silky feel. Because it's a silicone, it spreads easily on the skin and leaves a soft, non-greasy finish. It's considered very gentle and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation, making it a common choice for sensitive skin formulas.

What does Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?

It sits at the boundary between water and oil droplets, reducing surface tension so they blend into a stable, uniform cream or lotion. This prevents the product from separating and gives it a smooth, elegant texture.

Is Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone safe for most people?

Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Who should be careful with Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone?

Those who strictly avoid silicones in their routine

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety of SiliconesOpenPubChem - Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 DimethiconeOpenEWG Skin Deep - Silicone EmulsifiersOpen

Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.