What Is Bis-Peg/Ppg-18/6 Dimethicone?
Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone is a synthetic silicone ingredient created by attaching an average of 18 units of ethylene oxide and 6 units of propylene oxide to both ends of a dimethicone backbone. This chemical structure makes it part oil loving and part water loving, so it can move easily between oily and watery phases in a formula. The raw materials come from industrially produced silica for the silicone portion, and petrochemical or plant based feedstocks for the ethylene and propylene oxide segments. Manufacturing begins with standard dimethicone, which is then reacted in a controlled environment with ethylene oxide and propylene oxide using a catalyst that links these small molecules to the silicone chain. The finished material is a clear fluid that feels silky yet rinses off more readily than ordinary silicones.
Silicones entered the beauty world in the 1950s for their smooth feel and water resistance. By the early 1990s chemists started attaching PEG and PPG groups to silicone to improve versatility. Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone is one of these next-generation hybrids and is now common in moisturizers, serums, primers, foundations, sunscreens, hair conditioners, leave-in masks, styling creams and makeup removers.
Bis-Peg/Ppg-18/6 Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient serves two main roles in personal care formulas
- Emollient – Forms a lightweight, silky layer on skin or hair that fills in rough patches, boosts softness, reduces moisture loss and leaves a smooth non greasy finish
- Emulsifying – Helps oil and water mix evenly, improving the stability of lotions, creams and sprays while giving them a uniform texture and appearance
Who Can Use Bis-Peg/Ppg-18/6 Dimethicone
Because it is light, smoothing and rinses off more easily than standard silicones, Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone tends to work for nearly all skin types. Dry or mature skin can benefit from the soft, silky film it leaves behind, while oily and combination skin usually appreciates the weightless feel that does not add extra grease. Sensitive skin also tolerates it in most cases since the molecule is large and sits on the surface rather than soaking in, though anyone with a known silicone allergy should avoid it.
The ingredient is made from mineral or plant derived feedstocks and involves no animal sourced materials or animal testing at the ingredient stage, so it is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the finished product for certification if this is important to you.
Current research shows no evidence that topical Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run their full routine past a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
It does not increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and has no known interactions with common actives like retinol or vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but not expected for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Mild redness or itching in people who have a silicone sensitivity
- Temporary clogged pores in very acne prone skin if heavy layers are not washed off
- Watery eyes or stinging if the product migrates into the eye area
- Scalp buildup or limp hair when used in leave in hair products without regular cleansing
If any discomfort or irritation occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone forms a breathable film that sits on top of skin then rinses away more readily than heavier silicones, so it is unlikely to trap oil or dead cells inside pores. Its molecule is too large to penetrate deeply and it contains no fatty acids that tend to feed acne bacteria.
Most people prone to breakouts can use it without triggering extra pimples, though individual reactions always vary.
Build-up can still occur if multiple layers of silicone-rich products are left on skin for days, so consistent cleansing is key for very congested complexions.
Summary
Bis-PEG/PPG-18/6 Dimethicone works as an emollient that smooths rough texture and an emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended in stable, pleasant-feeling formulas. The PEG and PPG chains let it spread easily and rinse off with water while the dimethicone backbone gives the classic silky slip consumers love.
Thanks to this balance it shows up in moisturizers, sunscreens, primers, cleansers and hair care, making it a familiar sight on ingredient lists rather than a niche additive.
Current data shows it is low risk for irritation, sensitization or long-term health concerns when used in cosmetics. Still, skin is personal so patch testing a new product is always a smart habit before working it into a daily routine.