What Is Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone?
Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone is a silicone based ingredient created by attaching an average of 14 units of propylene oxide to each end of a dimethicone chain. The result is a hybrid molecule that keeps the silky feel of traditional silicones yet mixes more easily with water. It starts with silica, the same mineral found in sand, which is processed into dimethicone. Chemists then react the dimethicone with propylene oxide in a controlled setting to reach the 14/14 average. This extra step adds gentle cleansing and emulsifying traits while preserving the classic cushioning feel of silicones.
Silicones first appeared in personal care during the 1950s when formulators discovered their ability to give products a lightweight slip. Over time researchers searched for silicone molecules that could blend with both oils and water, leading to the development of Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone in the early 2000s. Because it improves texture and helps water mix with oils, brands use it in moisturizers, hydrating masks, anti aging serums, daily cleansers, lightweight lotions, sunscreens and hair smoothing leave in conditioners.
Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking molecule supports several key roles in modern formulas
- Skin conditioning – leaves a soft non greasy finish that makes skin feel smoother and more supple
- Emollient – fills in tiny gaps on the skin surface to reduce roughness and boost immediate comfort
- Cleansing – its balance of water loving and oil loving parts helps lift dirt, oil and makeup so they rinse away more easily
- Emulsifying – acts as a bridge between water and oils allowing stable creams, lotions or serums without separating
Who Can Use Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone
Because it is lightweight and non greasy Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its silky texture helps soften flaky spots without leaving a heavy film so even acne-prone users often tolerate it well. Those with very sensitive skin may still prefer to introduce it slowly since any new ingredient can trigger a reaction in rare cases.
The molecule is made from silica and propylene oxide with no animal-derived materials so it is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically at the concentrations found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare just to be safe.
Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to the sun so it is not linked to photosensitivity.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone vary from person to person. The points below cover potential issues but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or stinging
- Contact dermatitis in people who are allergic to silicones or propylene oxide derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Product buildup that may feel occlusive on very oily or congested skin if not cleansed thoroughly
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone sits low on the comedogenic scale because its large silicone backbone cannot easily settle into pores and the PEG/PPG side chains make it water dispersible so it rinses off more readily than traditional dimethicone. Most studies and user reports show little to no pore clogging even on oily skin.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in the vast majority of cases.
If used in very heavy products and not removed well it can build up over time which may bother extremely congested skin types, but this is uncommon.
Summary
Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone conditions skin, acts as an emollient, lifts dirt while cleansing and keeps oil and water mixed inside a formula. The silky silicone core gives slip and a light protective veil, while the 14 units of propylene oxide on each end blend with water so the ingredient can both soften skin and help create stable, easy-to-spread products.
It is moderately popular in skincare and haircare, showing up less often than plain dimethicone yet valued by chemists who want a silicone that plays nicely with water without losing that smooth feel.
Current safety data rate it as very low risk for irritation or toxicity when used topically. Still, everyone’s skin is different so do a quick patch test before diving into a new product that contains this multitasking silicone just to be cautious.