PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer?

PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a lab-made crosspolymer blending dimethicone, a lightweight silicone, with PEG-10, a short polyethylene glycol chain. This hybrid structure merges silicone's smooth, barrier-forming traits with PEG's water affinity, making it ideal for aqueous cosmetics like serums, gels, and lightweight moisturizers. In formulations, it swells in water to create a transparent, three-dimensional gel network, boosting viscosity for better spreadability and a velvety skin feel without greasiness. It excels as a stabilizer by locking emulsions in place, averting phase separation, and upholding clarity over time. Commonly featured in high-end clear products, it enhances usability across cleansers, toners, and treatments by improving suspension of actives and overall sensory appeal.

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:

Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Stabilising
Improves physical and/or chemical stability (e.g., preventing separation, precipitation, or degradation) to keep performance consistent over shelf life.

Benefits

Enhances product thickness for smooth dispensing and application.

Maintains formulation stability to prevent separation during storage.

Supports clear, lightweight textures ideal for gel-based skincare.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users preferring non-greasy, water-like serum consistencies.
People sensitive to PEG or ethoxylated compounds.
Those seeking stable products with consistent performance.
Those avoiding synthetic polymers in routines.
Individuals wanting silicone-enhanced silky skin feel.
Users with known silicone incompatibilities.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by some databases due to potential PEG-related impurities.
  • Generally safe in cosmetics when formulated within standard limits.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-10 Dimethicone Crosspolymer

What role does it play in products?

It controls viscosity and stabilizes formulas, creating smooth, clear gels.

Is it comedogenic?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0.

Safe for daily use?

Considered safe in cosmetics, though check for personal sensitivities to PEGs.