PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone

What is PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone?

PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone is a synthetic silicone polyether, formed by grafting polyethylene glycol (20 units) and polypropylene glycol (15 units) chains onto a dimethicone backbone. This creates a water-dispersible, low-viscosity ingredient commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, lotions, and serums. It reduces surface tension to cleanse effectively and stabilize oil-in-water emulsions by forming protective films at interfaces. Its dual hydrophilic-lipophilic nature allows even distribution of products, enhancing spreadability and reducing greasiness while enabling clear, non-milky textures in water-based formulas. Primarily used in rinse-off and leave-on hair and skin care for improved sensory feel.

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

Enhances product stability by emulsifying oil and water phases for consistent application.

Supports gentle cleansing through surfactant action that lowers surface tension.

Improves texture and spreadability for lightweight, non-greasy feel on skin and hair.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People seeking smooth, fast-absorbing emulsions in daily cleansers or moisturizers.
Those sensitive to polyethylene glycol derivatives from past reactions.
Individuals with normal to oily skin preferring non-comedogenic textures.
People preferring silicone-free products for personal reasons.
Hair care users wanting better foam and conditioning in shampoos.
Individuals concerned about potential impurities in PEG-modified ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by some databases due to possible contamination risks, though safe in typical cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on available assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone

What does PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone do in products?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifier to blend ingredients for even texture.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Generally safe in cosmetics with moderate hazard rating; check for personal sensitivities.

Does it cause breakouts?

Rated non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin without pore-clogging concerns.