Cetyl PEG/PPG-15/15 Butyl Ether Dimethicone

What is Cetyl PEG/PPG-15/15 Butyl Ether Dimethicone?

Cetyl PEG/PPG-15/15 Butyl Ether Dimethicone is a synthetic organosilicon compound, a modified polydimethylsiloxane featuring polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains, along with cetyl alcohol-derived and butyl ether moieties. Developed for cosmetics, it serves in emulsions, cleansers, and conditioners. Its amphiphilic structure—hydrophobic silicone backbone paired with hydrophilic polyethers and lipophilic alkyl groups—enables effective emulsification of water-in-silicone and silicone-in-water systems. This creates uniform, stable formulations with silky textures. It spreads easily, forming a breathable film that reduces tackiness and improves product glide on skin and hair. Frequently used in makeup, sunscreens, and shampoos, it enhances sensory qualities while aiding dispersion of active ingredients.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Supports stable mixing of water and oils for consistent cream and lotion textures.

Provides lightweight conditioning to soften and smooth skin surfaces.

Facilitates gentle cleansing in washes and shampoos by lowering surface tension.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or rough skin needing smoothness.
Those sensitive to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of emulsions seeking non-greasy feel.
People avoiding synthetic silicones in routines.
People with acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic nature.
Individuals concerned about potential manufacturing impurities.

Safety Notes

  • Cosmetic ingredient reviews deem it safe for use in typical concentrations.
  • Possible low-level contaminants from production processes warrant patch testing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cetyl PEG/PPG-15/15 Butyl Ether Dimethicone

What makes this ingredient effective in creams?

Its structure stabilizes oil-water mixes for even, non-separating textures.

Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it avoids pore blockage.

Does it cause irritation?

It has low irritation potential based on cosmetic safety data.