Ingredient review
PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone
INCI: PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone
A gentle silicone emulsifier that helps blend water and oil phases, giving products a silky, non-greasy feel.
In plain English
PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone is a silicone ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a formula. It helps keep the product smooth and stable, and leaves a soft, silky feeling on your skin without being heavy or sticky. Think of it as a helper that makes creams and lotions spread easily and feel nice.
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-27/27 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-27/27 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 polymer (dimethicone) with attached PEG and PPG chains. This structure makes it water-dispersible, allowing it to act as an emulsifier and texture modifier in water-based formulas.
How it works
The PEG/PPG chains make the silicone partially water-soluble, so it can help mix water and oil ingredients that normally separate. It also forms a thin, breathable film on the skin that reduces water loss and gives a smooth, silky finish.
Pros
Silky, lightweight feel
Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft without a heavy or greasy residue, making it ideal for daytime moisturizers and makeup.
Stable emulsions
Helps keep water and oil ingredients mixed together, so your product stays consistent and effective from first use to last.
Cons and cautions
Silicone avoidance
If you prefer silicone-free products, this ingredient won't fit your routine. Some people find silicones can build up on skin or hair over time.
Potential wash-off difficulty
In high concentrations, it may require a double cleanse to fully remove, especially from hair or oily skin.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys lightweight, silky moisturizers or sunscreens
- People with normal to oily skin who prefer non-greasy finishes
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with all silicones, it is not absorbed significantly through the skin.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and other bodies have found dimethicone and its copolymers to be safe in cosmetics. Studies show low skin irritation and no significant systemic absorption. Evidence is based on decades of use and regulatory reviews.
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 reviewed similar dimethicone copolymers and found them safe as used.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Foundations, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- Silicones like dimethicone are not readily biodegradable. However, PEG/PPG modifications may improve water dispersibility, reducing persistence in some environments. Look for brands that address silicone sustainability if this is a concern.
Good to know
- PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone is considered safe by cosmetic safety panels at typical use levels.
- It is often used in 'silicone blend' emulsifiers that improve the feel of sunscreens and foundations.
Common questions
What is PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone in beauty products?
PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone is a silicone ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil in a formula. It helps keep the product smooth and stable, and leaves a soft, silky feeling on your skin without being heavy or sticky. Think of it as a helper that makes creams and lotions spread easily and feel nice.
What does PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone do in a beauty product?
The PEG/PPG chains make the silicone partially water-soluble, so it can help mix water and oil ingredients that normally separate. It also forms a thin, breathable film on the skin that reduces water loss and gives a smooth, silky finish.
Is PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone safe for most people?
PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with all silicones, it is not absorbed significantly through the skin.
Who should be careful with PEG/PPG-27/27 Dimethicone?
Those who strictly avoid silicones in their skincare routine
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.