Ingredient review

PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone

INCI: PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone

A gentle silicone emulsifier that helps create smooth, spreadable formulas without heavy greasiness.

beautyskincareemulsifier

In plain English

This is a silicone ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a product. It helps keep the formula stable and gives a silky, smooth feel on the skin without leaving a sticky or oily residue. It's often used in lightweight moisturizers and makeup primers.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

4.0Good
4.0/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

PEG/PPG-22/23 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A modified silicone molecule with attached polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains, making it water-compatible while retaining silicone's smooth feel.

How it works

It reduces surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. On skin, it forms a thin, breathable film that feels silky and helps other ingredients spread evenly.

Pros

Lightweight feel

Leaves a silky, non-sticky finish that works well under makeup or alone.

Stable emulsions

Helps keep water and oil mixed, preventing separation and extending product shelf life.

Cons and cautions

PEG concerns

PEG compounds can be contaminated with ethylene oxide during manufacturing, though cosmetic-grade versions are purified.

Silicone buildup

May accumulate on skin or hair over time if not thoroughly cleansed, potentially clogging pores for some.

Best for

  • People who prefer lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers
  • Those using silicone-based primers or sunscreens

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known sensitivity to silicones or PEG compounds
  • Those following a strictly silicone-free routine

Usage tips

Use a gentle cleanser to remove silicone-based products thoroughly.
Layer with water-based serums before applying silicone-containing moisturizers for better absorption.

Safety summary

Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities. Irritation and allergy are rare.

Research notes

Limited independent studies on this specific molecule, but the broader class of dimethicone copolyols is well-studied and considered safe. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has reviewed similar PEG-modified silicones and found them safe as used.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics globally, with no specific restrictions at typical concentrations.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Foundations, Primers
Environmental note
Silicones are generally not biodegradable, but PEG/PPG-modified versions may break down more readily than pure dimethicone.

Good to know

  • PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel at typical use levels.
  • It is often used in 'silicone gel' textures that feel like a soft, velvety cream.

Common questions

What is PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone in beauty products?

This is a silicone ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a product. It helps keep the formula stable and gives a silky, smooth feel on the skin without leaving a sticky or oily residue. It's often used in lightweight moisturizers and makeup primers.

What does PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?

It reduces surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. On skin, it forms a thin, breathable film that feels silky and helps other ingredients spread evenly.

Is PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone safe for most people?

Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities. Irritation and allergy are rare.

Who should be careful with PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone?

Individuals with known sensitivity to silicones or PEG compounds Those following a strictly silicone-free routine

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review - Safety Assessment of Dimethicone CopolyolsOpenPubChem - PEG/PPG-22/23 DimethiconeOpenEWG Skin Deep - PEG/PPG-22/23 DimethiconeOpen

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.