Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone
Modified silicone emulsifier. Creates fluid water-in-silicone emulsions; stabilizes the formula, neutral on skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone is a modified silicone emulsifier. The molecule has a silicone backbone with grafted polyethylene-polypropylene glycol groups – it provides the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance needed for water-in-silicone (W/Si) emulsions. Mechanism. In a formula it works as a surfactant: stabilises fine water droplets in a continuous silicone phase. These emulsions are fluid, spread easily, give a silky slip on skin, and resist rinsing (sweat, water). It does not act on skin directly. Where applied. Mineral sunscreens, BB and CC creams, SPF foundations, mattifying products for oily and combination skin. Concentration 1–5%. In Spain part of ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Fluide, Avène Cleanance Solaire. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of the PEG/PPG dimethicone family in cosmetics in 2018. Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, hypoallergenic. No systemic absorption through intact skin – the molecule is large. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Used without restriction. PEG controversy. Some 'natural cosmetics' marketers criticise PEGs for theoretical 1,4-dioxane traces (ethoxylation byproduct). Real testing by AEMPS, FDA, and SCCS shows 1,4-dioxane levels in quality cosmetics below the significance threshold. If concerned, look for 'PEG-free' labels or oil-in-water emulsions with cetearyl alcohol. Functional role. An auxiliary emulsifier for W/Si formulas, not a cosmetic active. No standalone skin benefit.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone safe during pregnancy?
Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone for?
Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone and what does it do in cosmetics?
Modified silicone emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone?
The INCI name is Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone. It may also appear as: Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16/PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone.
See Bis-PEG/PPG-16/16 PEG/PPG-16/16 Dimethicone in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
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