PEG-12 Dimethicone Crosspolymer

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-12 Dimethicone Crosspolymer?

PEG-12 Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a synthetic silicone-based polymer formed by crosslinking dimethicone, a polydimethylsiloxane, with short polyethylene glycol chains. This structure creates a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance ideal for cosmetic use in products like moisturizers, sunscreens, cleansers, and foundations. It functions primarily by forming a three-dimensional network at the oil-water interface, which reinforces emulsion stability and prevents droplet merging or separation. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension to aid mixing of immiscible phases and enable foaming in rinse-off items. Its viscosity-modifying properties allow precise control of product thickness, while suspending capabilities keep pigments and actives uniformly distributed, ensuring even application and consistent performance throughout shelf life.

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:

Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
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.
Suspending agent
Keeps insoluble particles (pigments, beads, actives) evenly dispersed by increasing viscosity or forming a network, preventing settling and separation.
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 emulsion stability for long-lasting product texture without separation.

Controls viscosity to improve spreadability and smooth sensory feel on skin.

Suspends particles evenly, preventing settling for uniform color and active delivery.

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 of cream or lotion formulations seeking stable, non-separating textures.
Those with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals preferring lightweight, silicone-enhanced products for better slip.
Users preferring silicone-free or minimalistic formulations.
People with acne-prone skin, as it shows low comedogenic potential.
Individuals concerned about moderate hazard ratings from some databases.

Safety Notes

  • Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use by ingredient review experts.
  • Low potential for comedogenicity, suitable for most skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-12 Dimethicone Crosspolymer

What does PEG-12 Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in products?

It stabilizes emulsions, acts as a surfactant, and controls viscosity for better texture and performance.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has low irritation potential based on safety reviews, though those sensitive to PEGs may monitor use.

Does it cause acne?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low risk of pore clogging.