Ingredient review
Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone
INCI: BIS-PEG/PPG-18/6 DIMETHICONE
A gentle silicone emulsifier that creates smooth, spreadable textures and helps formulas feel lightweight.
In plain English
This is a silicone-based ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a product. It helps keep the formula stable and gives it a silky, smooth feel on your skin without being heavy or greasy. Think of it as a helper that makes creams and sunscreens spread easily and feel nice.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A modified silicone molecule with both water-loving (PEG/PPG) and oil-loving (dimethicone) parts. It is used as an emulsifier to mix water and oil phases in cosmetic products.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. This prevents separation and gives the product a uniform, smooth texture. It also leaves a thin, breathable film on the skin that feels silky.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike some traditional emulsifiers, this silicone version leaves a silky, non-greasy finish that works well under makeup or alone.
Stable formulas
It helps prevent water and oil from separating, so your product stays consistent from first use to last.
Cons and cautions
Not natural
It is a synthetic silicone derivative, which may not appeal to those seeking natural or biodegradable ingredients.
Rare sensitivity
A small number of people with very reactive skin may experience mild irritation or clogged pores, though this is uncommon.
Best for
- Anyone who prefers lightweight, silky-feeling moisturizers or sunscreens
- People with normal to oily skin who want a non-greasy finish
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivity to silicones or PEG compounds
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Rare reports of sensitivity in very reactive skin.
Research notes
Limited independent studies on this specific molecule, but silicones as a class are well-studied and generally regarded as safe for topical use. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar dimethicone copolyols and found them safe.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Foundations, Primers, Serums
- Environmental note
- As a silicone derivative, it is not readily biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment. Some brands are moving toward more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- It is often used in combination with other silicones to enhance texture and spreadability.
- The PEG/PPG portion makes it water-dispersible, so it rinses off more easily than pure dimethicone.
Common questions
What is Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone in beauty products?
This is a silicone-based ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a product. It helps keep the formula stable and gives it a silky, smooth feel on your skin without being heavy or greasy. Think of it as a helper that makes creams and sunscreens spread easily and feel nice.
What does Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. This prevents separation and gives the product a uniform, smooth texture. It also leaves a thin, breathable film on the skin that feels silky.
Is Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Rare reports of sensitivity in very reactive skin.
Who should be careful with Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone?
Those with known sensitivity to silicones or PEG compounds
Research sources
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.