Ingredient review
Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate
INCI: DIMETHICONE PEG/PPG-20/23 BENZOATE
A gentle silicone emulsifier that helps create smooth, spreadable products without heavy residue.
In plain English
This ingredient is a modified silicone that acts like a bridge between water and oil in your skincare or makeup. It helps the product feel silky and spread easily, without leaving a greasy or sticky finish. Think of it as a helper that keeps the formula stable and pleasant to use.
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate 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 Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate.
- 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 silicone polymer chemically modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains, plus a benzoate group. This structure gives it both water-friendly and oil-friendly properties, making it an effective emulsifier.
How it works
It reduces surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. The silicone backbone provides a smooth, silky feel on skin, while the PEG/PPG chains improve water dispersibility and the benzoate group adds mild conditioning.
Pros
Silky texture
Provides a smooth, non-greasy feel that makes products pleasant to apply and wear.
Formula stability
Helps keep water and oil mixed, preventing separation and extending product shelf life.
Cons and cautions
Silicone concerns
Some people prefer to avoid silicones due to environmental persistence or personal preference.
PEG impurities
PEG compounds can sometimes contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide, though cosmetic-grade ingredients are purified.
Best for
- People who enjoy lightweight, silky moisturizers or sunscreens
- Those with normal to combination skin looking for a smooth finish
Use caution if
- Individuals strictly avoiding silicones or PEG compounds
- Those with very sensitive skin who prefer minimal ingredient lists
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Individuals with concerns about silicones or PEGs may choose to avoid it.
Research notes
Limited specific studies on this exact ingredient, but the broader class of dimethicone copolyols and PEG-modified silicones has been reviewed by safety panels and found safe for cosmetic use. The CIR has published favorable safety assessments for related compounds.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar silicone emulsifiers and found them safe as used.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Foundations, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- Silicones can persist in the environment, but this modified silicone is less likely to bioaccumulate than some other silicones. PEG components are biodegradable.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'water-in-silicone' emulsions, which are common in long-wear makeup.
- It is considered safe at typical cosmetic concentrations by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a modified silicone that acts like a bridge between water and oil in your skincare or makeup. It helps the product feel silky and spread easily, without leaving a greasy or sticky finish. Think of it as a helper that keeps the formula stable and pleasant to use.
What does Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate do in a beauty product?
It reduces surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. The silicone backbone provides a smooth, silky feel on skin, while the PEG/PPG chains improve water dispersibility and the benzoate group adds mild conditioning.
Is Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Individuals with concerns about silicones or PEGs may choose to avoid it.
Who should be careful with Dimethicone PEG/PPG-20/23 Benzoate?
Individuals strictly avoiding silicones or PEG compounds Those with very sensitive skin who prefer minimal ingredient lists
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.