Ingredient review
PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer
INCI: PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer
A synthetic silicone polymer that improves water resistance and wear time in cosmetics, generally well-tolerated but not biodegradable.
In plain English
This ingredient is a man-made silicone polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on skin or hair. It helps products stay put longer, resist water, and feel smooth without being greasy. Think of it like a very lightweight, breathable raincoat for your skin or hair.
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-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 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-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 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 crosslinked silicone polymer created by chemically bonding PEG-8 dimethicone (a silicone) with polysorbate 20 (a surfactant). This creates a larger molecule that can form a film.
How it works
When applied, the polymer spreads into a thin, even layer that dries to a flexible, water-resistant film. This film helps lock in other ingredients, prevents makeup from smudging, and reduces water loss from the skin.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective longer during swimming, sweating, or humid conditions, so you don't have to reapply as often.
Creates a smooth finish
Leaves skin and hair feeling silky and soft without a sticky or greasy residue, making it ideal for primers and styling products.
Cons and cautions
Not biodegradable
As a synthetic silicone polymer, it does not break down easily in the environment, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.
Can be hard to remove
Because it forms a water-resistant film, you may need an oil-based cleanser or double cleansing to fully remove it, especially from the face.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- Those with normal to dry skin looking for a smooth, protective layer
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer fully biodegradable or natural ingredients
- Those with very oily or acne-prone skin who may find film-formers too occlusive
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as a synthetic silicone, it is not biodegradable.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that this ingredient is safe for use in cosmetics. Most evidence comes from industry-sponsored studies and regulatory reviews, with limited independent clinical research on its long-term effects.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Long-wear makeup, Hair styling products, Water-resistant lotions
- Environmental note
- This ingredient is synthetic and not readily biodegradable. It may accumulate in the environment, so consider using products with it sparingly if you are concerned about ecological impact.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'transfer-proof' or 'long-wear' makeup formulas.
- It is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.
- Despite being a silicone, it is not the same as dimethicone and has different film-forming properties.
Common questions
What is PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a man-made silicone polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on skin or hair. It helps products stay put longer, resist water, and feel smooth without being greasy. Think of it like a very lightweight, breathable raincoat for your skin or hair.
What does PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer spreads into a thin, even layer that dries to a flexible, water-resistant film. This film helps lock in other ingredients, prevents makeup from smudging, and reduces water loss from the skin.
Is PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer safe for most people?
PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as a synthetic silicone, it is not biodegradable.
Who should be careful with PEG-8 Dimethicone/Polysorbate 20 Crosspolymer?
Individuals who prefer fully biodegradable or natural ingredients Those with very oily or acne-prone skin who may find film-formers too occlusive
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.