Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate?

Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate is a modified silicone compound created by esterifying dimethicone—a polydimethylsiloxane—with polyethylene glycol (PEG-8) and fatty acids derived from meadowfoam seed oil (Limnanthes alba). This results in a water-soluble, lightweight ingredient commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments, lotions, and creams. In formulations, it acts as a surface modifier, spreading evenly to form a thin, non-tacky film that lubricates hair cuticles and skin layers. This reduces inter-fiber friction in hair for easier combing and imparts a velvety texture to skin by temporarily filling micro-roughness, while its meadowfoam-derived portion enhances emolliency and oxidative stability compared to plain silicones.

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:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Improves hair softness, shine, and combability by minimizing static and friction.

Smooths skin surface for a softer, more supple feel without heaviness.

Supports moisture retention through light film-forming action paired with other agents.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with dry, tangled, or dull hair seeking better manageability.
Users sensitive to PEG-derivatized ingredients.
Individuals wanting lightweight skin softening in daily moisturizers.
People avoiding silicones for personal or formulation preferences.
Those preferring non-greasy conditioning in rinse-off products.
Those with rare allergies to meadowfoam seed derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed safe for use in cosmetics by expert reviews, with low comedogenic potential.
  • PEG modification may introduce low-level impurity concerns if not purified properly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate

Is Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

What hair products contain it?

Common in conditioners and shampoos for detangling and shine enhancement.

Does it suit sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation potential from conditioning silicones.