PEG/PPG-3/6 DIMETHYL ETHER

INCI: PEG/PPG-3/6 DIMETHYL ETHER | Function: Solvent, Skin Conditioning | Type: Moisturizer

What Is PEG/PPG-3/6 DIMETHYL ETHER?

A polyether compound derived from the copolymerization of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide with dimethyl ether. Functions as a lightweight solvent and skin-conditioning agent that improves spreadability and reduces tackiness in cosmetic formulations.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Imparts a smooth, silky after-feel — reduces tackiness of other ingredients
+ Improves ingredient solubility — helps dissolve actives in water-based formulas

Pros

+ Generally well-tolerated — CIR-reviewed as safe for cosmetic use
+ Non-comedogenic — does not clog pores
+ Lightweight conditioning — does not weigh hair or skin down

Cons

− Limited independent research — most safety data from CIR panel review of the class
− Synthetic origin — not suitable for natural/organic formulations
− PEG-containing — trace 1,4-dioxane possible if poorly purified (rare in cosmetics)

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Eye, Body
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Synthetic
Natural Level	Synthetic

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	1/5 (very low)
Comedogenic Rating	0/5
EWG Score	1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Toners / mists	0.5-3%
Serums	0.5-2%

References

CIR (2018) — Safety Assessment of PEG/PPG Dimethicone Crosspolymers as Used in Cosmetics. Cosmetic Ingredient Review.
CosIng (2025) — European Commission Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
EWG Skin Deep — Hazard Score Assessment. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) — INCI Monograph.

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