Ingredient review
PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone
INCI: PEG/PPG-22/22 BUTYL ETHER DIMETHICONE
A gentle silicone emulsifier that helps create smooth, stable formulas without heavy residue.
In plain English
This is a silicone-based ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a product. It helps keep the formula from separating and gives a silky, lightweight feel on your skin. Because it's a silicone, it spreads easily and doesn't feel greasy, making it common in lotions, sunscreens, and makeup.
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
PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether 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 PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether 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 modified silicone molecule with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains attached. This structure allows it to mix water and oil phases, acting as an emulsifier and skin feel enhancer.
How it works
The PEG/PPG chains make the silicone water-friendly while the butyl ether and dimethicone backbone remain oil-friendly. When added to a formula, it positions itself at the interface of water and oil droplets, preventing them from separating. This creates a stable, uniform cream or lotion that feels smooth and non-sticky on application.
Pros
Excellent emulsifier
It effectively blends water and oil, preventing separation and ensuring your product stays consistent from first use to last.
Lightweight feel
Unlike some heavy oils or waxes, this silicone leaves a silky, non-sticky finish that works well under makeup or alone.
Cons and cautions
Silicone content
Some people prefer to avoid silicones due to personal preference or concerns about environmental persistence, though this ingredient is generally considered safe.
PEG component
PEGs can be contaminated with ethylene oxide during manufacturing, but cosmetic-grade PEGs are purified and regulated for safety.
Best for
- People who enjoy lightweight, silky moisturizers
- Those with normal to oily skin looking for non-greasy formulas
Use caution if
- Individuals strictly avoiding all silicones or PEG compounds
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities, and regulatory bodies worldwide approve its use.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and EU SCCS support the use of PEG-modified silicones in cosmetics. Studies show low skin irritation and sensitization potential. However, long-term environmental impact data is limited.
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 concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Foundations
- Environmental note
- Silicones can persist in the environment, but PEG/PPG-modified silicones may degrade more readily than pure dimethicone. Still, some consumers choose silicone-free options for environmental reasons.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'water-in-silicone' emulsions, which are common in long-wear makeup and sunscreens.
- It is considered non-comedogenic for most skin types.
Common questions
What is PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone in beauty products?
This is a silicone-based ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a product. It helps keep the formula from separating and gives a silky, lightweight feel on your skin. Because it's a silicone, it spreads easily and doesn't feel greasy, making it common in lotions, sunscreens, and makeup.
What does PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
The PEG/PPG chains make the silicone water-friendly while the butyl ether and dimethicone backbone remain oil-friendly. When added to a formula, it positions itself at the interface of water and oil droplets, preventing them from separating. This creates a stable, uniform cream or lotion that feels smooth and non-sticky on application.
Is PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone safe for most people?
PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities, and regulatory bodies worldwide approve its use.
Who should be careful with PEG/PPG-22/22 Butyl Ether Dimethicone?
Individuals strictly avoiding all 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.