Disodium PEG-12 Dimethicone Sulfosuccinate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is Disodium PEG-12 Dimethicone Sulfosuccinate?

Disodium PEG-12 Dimethicone Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic anionic surfactant formed by esterifying sulfosuccinic acid with PEG-12 dimethicone, a polyethylene glycol-modified silicone polymer. This creates an amphiphilic molecule with a hydrophobic silicone backbone, hydrophilic PEG chain, and charged sulfosuccinate head. Primarily used in rinse-off hair and skin cleansing products like shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers, it reduces surface tension to enable dirt and oil removal while forming stable foams. Its silicone component imparts a smooth, non-stripping feel, and the hydrotropic properties help dissolve fragrances and oils in water-based formulas, preventing cloudiness and enhancing product clarity and stability during use.

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:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Hydrotrope
Improves solubility of poorly soluble ingredients (like fragrances) in water-based systems, helping maintain clarity and prevent separation or cloudiness.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing action that lifts impurities without harsh stripping.

Supports creamy, stable lather in shampoos and washes for better user experience.

Aids in solubilizing hard-to-dissolve ingredients, improving formula performance.

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 seeking mild, foaming cleansers for daily hair and body care.
Those sensitive or allergic to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients.
People preferring silicone-enhanced products for smoother rinse-off feel.
People avoiding synthetic silicones in their routines.
Users of clear, stable formulations with fragrances or oils.
Individuals with sulfosuccinate sensitivities, though rare.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety databases, suitable for typical cosmetic use.
  • Potential for low-level impurities common to PEGs, minimized in quality production.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disodium PEG-12 Dimethicone Sulfosuccinate

What does it do in products?

Acts as a surfactant for cleansing and foaming, plus hydrotrope to dissolve fragrances in water.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally mild with low irritation potential in rinse-off products.

Why is PEG in its name?

PEG-12 chain enhances water solubility and mildness in this silicone-based ingredient.