PEG-12 Dimethicone
Water-soluble silicone surfactant-emulsifier. Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and provides soft slip 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, Oily, Combination
About this ingredient
PEG-12 Dimethicone is a modified silicone with an attached polyethylene glycol chain (degree 12) that makes it water-soluble. Unlike ordinary dimethicone, it is compatible with aqueous formulas without emulsifiers. Mechanism. A conditioning component for skin and hair – forms a thin film, adds smoothness, reduces friction. Water solubility allows easy rinse-off. Where applied. Shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, toners. Concentration 1–5%. Evidence base. No clinical RCTs required. CIR confirmed safety. Safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe.
Frequently asked questions
Is PEG-12 Dimethicone safe during pregnancy?
PEG-12 Dimethicone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is PEG-12 Dimethicone for?
PEG-12 Dimethicone suits: normal, oily, combination.
What is PEG-12 Dimethicone and what does it do in cosmetics?
Water-soluble silicone surfactant-emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for PEG-12 Dimethicone?
The INCI name is PEG-12 Dimethicone. It may also appear as: PEG/PPG-12 Dimethicone.
See PEG-12 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
Other functional ingredients
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate, PEG-14M, PEG-150 Distearate, Propane, Thiamine Diphosphate, Carnauba Wax, Glyceryl Rosinate
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