PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone

What is PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone?

PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone is a synthetic silicone derivative formed by grafting polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains onto a dimethicone backbone, a polydimethylsiloxane polymer. This creates a water-dispersible, amphiphilic molecule with both hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (oil-loving) properties. Primarily featured in hair care products like shampoos and conditioners, as well as skin care items such as lotions, serums, and makeup removers, it serves in rinse-off and leave-on formulations. Its key function involves lowering surface tension to facilitate the blending of immiscible ingredients, forming stable emulsions that prevent separation. As a surfactant, it aids in dirt and oil removal during cleansing, while its conditioning aspect delivers a lightweight, silky texture without greasiness, enhancing spreadability and product performance across diverse cosmetic categories.

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.
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 effective cleansing by reducing surface tension for better dirt removal.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures in creams and lotions for even consistency.

Provides a smooth, slippery feel to hair and skin products for easier application.

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 using shampoos or body washes for gentle, thorough cleansing.
Those sensitive to PEG-modified ingredients due to potential irritation.
Users of moisturizers seeking lightweight, non-sticky textures.
Individuals preferring clean-label, silicone-free formulations.
People with normal to dry hair desiring improved manageability.
Users concerned about trace manufacturing impurities in cosmetics.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to limited data on allergies and impurities.
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for routine use in most cosmetic products.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone

What does PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and an emulsifier to blend oils and water for stable textures.

Is it comedogenic?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.

What is its safety profile?

EWG scores it 3 for moderate concerns mainly from impurities; generally safe in cosmetics.