PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone

What is PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone?

PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone is a synthetic silicone derivative, specifically a dimethicone backbone grafted with 19-unit polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains. This modification renders it amphiphilic, allowing solubility in both water and oil phases, unlike traditional hydrophobic silicones. Primarily found in rinse-off products like shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and serums. It functions by lowering surface tension at oil-water interfaces, promoting uniform dispersion of ingredients, stabilizing emulsions against separation, and facilitating easy spreading. In cleansing formulas, it aids foam formation and rinseability; in moisturizers, it contributes to lightweight, non-sticky textures. Derived from petroleum-based siloxanes polymerized with glycols, it is manufactured under controlled conditions to meet cosmetic purity standards.

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 stable mixing of oils and water for consistent lotion and cream textures.

Boosts cleansing efficiency in shampoos and washes by enhancing foam and rinse-off.

Improves product spreadability, delivering a silky, lightweight application feel.

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 emulsified products like moisturizers seeking smooth, non-separating formulas.
People with sensitivities to silicone polymers or glycol-modified ingredients.
Individuals with hair or skin preferring gentle, foaming cleansers that rinse cleanly.
Those preferring silicone-free or natural-only formulations.
Those desiring silicone-enhanced slip in conditioners without heavy residue.
Users concerned about potential impurities in PEG-containing compounds.

Safety Notes

  • Generally considered safe for cosmetic use in typical concentrations per ingredient review panels.
  • Potential for low-level impurities exists, as with many PEG derivatives, but regulated in approved products.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone

What does PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone do in cosmetics?

It emulsifies oil-water mixes and acts as a surfactant to improve texture, foam, and spreadability in products.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Regulatory reviews deem it safe at cosmetic levels, especially in rinse-off items.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic with a 0 rating, suitable for pore-friendly routines.