Ingredient review

Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone

INCI: BIS-PEG/PPG-20/5 PEG/PPG-20/5 DIMETHICONE

A gentle silicone emulsifier that improves texture and spreadability without clogging pores.

beautyskincareemulsifier

In plain English

This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps mix water and oil in your skincare products, making them feel smooth and silky. It's often used in moisturizers and sunscreens to give a lightweight, non-greasy finish.

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-20/5 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-20/5 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 molecule with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains attached, designed to act as an emulsifier and skin conditioner.

How it works

It reduces surface tension between water and oil phases, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. It also forms a thin, breathable film on the skin that improves texture and reduces tackiness.

Pros

Lightweight feel

Leaves skin feeling silky and smooth without heavy residue, ideal for layering under makeup.

Stable emulsions

Helps prevent separation in water-and-oil blends, so your product stays consistent from first use to last.

Cons and cautions

Silicone concerns

Some people prefer to avoid silicones for environmental or personal reasons, though this one is generally considered safe.

PEG impurities

PEG compounds can sometimes contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide during manufacturing, though reputable brands purify them.

Best for

  • People with normal to oily skin who prefer lightweight textures
  • Anyone using sunscreen or foundation who wants a smooth application

Use caution if

  • Those who strictly avoid all silicones or PEG compounds in their routine

Usage tips

Apply to damp skin for better absorption
Use after water-based serums and before heavier creams

Safety summary

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Some concerns about PEG impurities are managed by using high-quality raw materials.

Research notes

Limited independent studies specifically on this ingredient, but it is widely used in cosmetics and has a long history of safe use. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has deemed similar silicone emulsifiers safe.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets with no concentration restrictions.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Foundations, Serums, Hair conditioners
Environmental note
Silicones can be slow to biodegrade; however, this modified version may have lower environmental persistence than some other silicones.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often found in 'silicone-free' formulas because it's a modified silicone that behaves differently from traditional dimethicone.

Common questions

What is Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone in beauty products?

This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps mix water and oil in your skincare products, making them feel smooth and silky. It's often used in moisturizers and sunscreens to give a lightweight, non-greasy finish.

What does Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?

It reduces surface tension between water and oil phases, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. It also forms a thin, breathable film on the skin that improves texture and reduces tackiness.

Is Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone safe for most people?

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Some concerns about PEG impurities are managed by using high-quality raw materials.

Who should be careful with Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone?

Those who strictly avoid all silicones or PEG compounds in their routine

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review - Safety of SiliconesOpenINCI Database - Personal Care CouncilOpen

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.