A fatty acid ester of a PEG/PPG copolymer. Functions as a non-ionic emulsifier and surfactant that helps solubilize oils in water-based formulations. Provides mild cleansing with emollient properties.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Stabilizes oil-water mixtures — prevents phase separation in emulsions
+ Provides mild, non-stripping cleansing — suitable for sensitive skin
Pros
+ Generally well-tolerated — CIR-reviewed as safe for cosmetic use
+ Non-comedogenic — does not clog pores
+ Water-dispersible — easier to formulate than pure silicones
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, Hair
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 %
Facial cleansers
1-5%
Shampoos / body wash
2-8%
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.