Ingredient review
PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer
INCI: PEG-10/LAURYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER
A reliable silicone emulsifier that creates smooth, lightweight textures without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a man-made silicone ingredient that helps mix water and oil in a product so they don't separate. It also gives a silky, smooth feel to creams and lotions, making them spread easily and feel lightweight on the skin. Unlike some silicones, it doesn't leave a heavy or greasy residue.
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
PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer 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 PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer.
- 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 crosslinked silicone polymer modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lauryl groups. It acts as a stabilizer and emulsifier in water-in-oil and oil-in-water formulations.
How it works
It forms a thin, flexible film on the skin that helps the product spread evenly. Its crosslinked structure traps water and oil together, preventing separation and giving a smooth, non-sticky finish.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Gives a silky, non-greasy texture that makes creams and sunscreens feel comfortable on the skin, especially for oily or combination skin types.
Stable emulsions
Helps keep water and oil mixed together, so your product stays smooth and effective from first use to last.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made in a lab from petrochemicals, which may be a concern for those seeking fully natural or biodegradable ingredients.
PEG concerns
The PEG part can sometimes contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide if not manufactured to high purity standards, though reputable brands use well-purified grades.
Best for
- People who prefer lightweight, silky moisturizers or sunscreens
- Those with normal to oily skin looking for a non-greasy finish
Use caution if
- Individuals who strictly avoid all synthetic silicones or PEG compounds
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities. No significant irritation or allergy concerns for most users.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this ingredient, but it is widely used in cosmetics and considered safe by industry panels. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has evaluated similar silicone crosspolymers and found them safe as used.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU Cosmetics Regulation and the US FDA, with no specific concentration restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Foundations, Primers
- Environmental note
- As a silicone-based polymer, it is not readily biodegradable and may persist in the environment. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate significantly.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'water-in-silicone' emulsions, which are common in long-wear makeup and water-resistant sunscreens.
- It is considered low risk for irritation and comedogenicity by most dermatological sources.
Common questions
What is PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made silicone ingredient that helps mix water and oil in a product so they don't separate. It also gives a silky, smooth feel to creams and lotions, making them spread easily and feel lightweight on the skin. Unlike some silicones, it doesn't leave a heavy or greasy residue.
What does PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
It forms a thin, flexible film on the skin that helps the product spread evenly. Its crosslinked structure traps water and oil together, preventing separation and giving a smooth, non-sticky finish.
Is PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities. No significant irritation or allergy concerns for most users.
Who should be careful with PEG-10/Laureth Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Individuals who strictly avoid all synthetic 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.