Ingredient review
PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer
INCI: PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer
A silicone polymer that creates a smooth, breathable film on skin, improving product feel and wear without clogging pores.
In plain English
This ingredient is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps other ingredients spread evenly, makes products feel silky, and can improve water resistance. It is not absorbed into the skin and sits on the surface, which is why it is generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
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-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 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-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 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 synthetic silicone polymer created by crosslinking dimethicone (a common silicone) with PPG-20 (a polypropylene glycol chain) and PEG-12 (a polyethylene glycol chain). This structure gives it both water-loving and oil-loving properties, making it useful in emulsions.
How it works
When applied, the polymer forms a thin, flexible film on the skin's surface. This film helps lock in moisture, smooths the skin's texture, and creates a barrier that can improve the wear time of makeup or sunscreen. It also helps stabilize emulsions, preventing oil and water from separating.
Pros
Silky, smooth feel
Creates a velvety, non-greasy finish that makes products glide on easily and leaves skin feeling soft.
Improves wear and water resistance
Helps sunscreen and makeup last longer by forming a flexible film that resists water and sweat.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a man-made silicone, it may not fit 'clean' or natural beauty preferences, though it is widely considered safe.
Can feel heavy on oily skin
In high concentrations, the film may feel slightly heavy or slick for those with very oily skin types.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a smooth, silky finish in moisturizers or primers
- People who want improved water resistance in sunscreen or long-wear makeup
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid all silicones in their routine
- Individuals with very oily skin who prefer lightweight, silicone-free textures
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is not absorbed into the skin, has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is widely used in skincare and makeup. Some consumers choose to avoid silicones for environmental or personal preference reasons.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that dimethicone and related silicone polymers are safe for topical use. Studies show they do not penetrate the skin barrier and are non-irritating. Environmental concerns about silicone persistence exist, but high-molecular-weight crosspolymers are less mobile.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (USA) and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Primers, Color Cosmetics
- Environmental note
- Silicones like this one are not biodegradable and can accumulate in the environment. However, this specific crosspolymer is a high-molecular-weight silicone that is less likely to be absorbed or bioaccumulate.
Good to know
- This polymer is often used in combination with other silicones to fine-tune texture and feel.
- It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Common questions
What is PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a type of silicone that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps other ingredients spread evenly, makes products feel silky, and can improve water resistance. It is not absorbed into the skin and sits on the surface, which is why it is generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores).
What does PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer forms a thin, flexible film on the skin's surface. This film helps lock in moisture, smooths the skin's texture, and creates a barrier that can improve the wear time of makeup or sunscreen. It also helps stabilize emulsions, preventing oil and water from separating.
Is PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer safe for most people?
PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is not absorbed into the skin, has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is widely used in skincare and makeup. Some consumers choose to avoid silicones for environmental or personal preference reasons.
Who should be careful with PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer?
Those who strictly avoid all silicones in their routine Individuals with very oily skin who prefer lightweight, silicone-free textures
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.