Ingredient review
Bis-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 Dimethicone
INCI: BIS(PPG-7 UNDECENETH-21) DIMETHICONE
A gentle silicone emulsifier that improves product texture and stability without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It also makes products feel silky and smooth on your skin, without leaving a greasy residue. Because it's a large molecule, it mostly sits on the surface of your skin, so it's unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.
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-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 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-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 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 synthetic silicone polymer modified with PPG (polypropylene glycol) and undeceneth chains to act as a water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsifier. It is part of the dimethicone family, known for its smooth, non-greasy feel.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to form a stable, uniform mixture. In a formula, it helps create a lightweight, spreadable texture and leaves a soft, velvety film on the skin that can also help other ingredients adhere better.
Pros
Excellent texture enhancer
Creates a silky, smooth feel on skin that helps makeup apply evenly and reduces the greasy sensation of oils.
Low irritation and comedogenic risk
Large molecular size means it stays on the skin's surface, making it unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, even for sensitive skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a lab-made silicone, it may not be preferred by those seeking natural or minimal-ingredient routines.
Can feel heavy in high amounts
In formulas with a high concentration of this ingredient, some users may experience a slightly tacky or overly slick sensation.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin who prefer a matte finish
- Those looking for a stable, long-lasting moisturizer or foundation
Use caution if
- Individuals strictly avoiding all silicones in their routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Large molecular size limits skin penetration, reducing irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that dimethicone and its derivatives are safe as used in cosmetics. Specific studies on this modified silicone are limited, but its structure suggests low bioavailability and low toxicity.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Foundations, Primers, Serums
- Environmental note
- Silicones can persist in the environment; however, this modified silicone is designed to be more biodegradable than traditional dimethicones.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'water-resistant' sunscreens because it helps the formula stay intact on skin.
- It is biodegradable under certain conditions, though its environmental fate is still being studied.
Common questions
What is Bis-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 Dimethicone in beauty products?
This is a silicone-based ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It also makes products feel silky and smooth on your skin, without leaving a greasy residue. Because it's a large molecule, it mostly sits on the surface of your skin, so it's unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.
What does Bis-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to form a stable, uniform mixture. In a formula, it helps create a lightweight, spreadable texture and leaves a soft, velvety film on the skin that can also help other ingredients adhere better.
Is Bis-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 Dimethicone safe for most people?
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Large molecular size limits skin penetration, reducing irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Bis-PPG-7 Undeceneth-21 Dimethicone?
Individuals strictly avoiding all silicones in their routine
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.