Ingredient review
PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone
INCI: PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone
A gentle silicone emulsifier that improves product texture and spreadability without clogging pores.
In plain English
PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone is a modified silicone that helps mix water and oil in skincare and makeup. It makes products feel silky and smooth on the skin, and it's very unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts. Think of it as a helper ingredient that gives your lotion or foundation a nice, even texture.
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-22/24 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-22/24 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 silicone polymer modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains to make it water-compatible. It acts as an emulsifier and skin conditioner.
How it works
It reduces surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to blend into a stable cream or lotion. It also leaves a thin, breathable film on the skin that feels smooth and helps lock in moisture.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Rated low for both irritation and comedogenicity, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Improves product feel
Gives creams and serums a silky, non-greasy texture that spreads easily and feels pleasant on the skin.
Cons and cautions
Silicone buildup
Some users report that silicones can accumulate on the skin or hair over time, potentially leading to a heavy feel or dullness.
PEG concerns
PEG compounds are sometimes criticized for potential contamination with ethylene oxide during manufacturing, though cosmetic-grade PEGs are purified.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle, non-irritating emulsifier in their skincare
- People with normal to dry skin who enjoy a silky finish
Use caution if
- Those who prefer silicone-free or PEG-free formulations
- Individuals with known sensitivity to silicones
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities, and the silicone backbone is well-tolerated by most skin types.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that PEG/PPG dimethicones are safe as used in cosmetics. Studies show low skin irritation and sensitization potential.
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 concentration restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Foundations
- Environmental note
- Silicones are generally not biodegradable, but PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone is used in small amounts and is not considered a major environmental concern.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'silicone feel' products like primers and BB creams.
- It is considered safe by major cosmetic safety panels at typical use levels.
Common questions
What is PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone in beauty products?
PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone is a modified silicone that helps mix water and oil in skincare and makeup. It makes products feel silky and smooth on the skin, and it's very unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts. Think of it as a helper ingredient that gives your lotion or foundation a nice, even texture.
What does PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
It reduces surface tension between water and oil droplets, allowing them to blend into a stable cream or lotion. It also leaves a thin, breathable film on the skin that feels smooth and helps lock in moisture.
Is PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone safe for most people?
PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. The PEG component is purified to remove impurities, and the silicone backbone is well-tolerated by most skin types.
Who should be careful with PEG/PPG-22/24 Dimethicone?
Those who prefer silicone-free or PEG-free formulations Individuals with known sensitivity to silicones
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.