What Is Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone?
Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone is a silicone based ingredient created by linking dimethicone with small amounts of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG). The numbers 22 and 24 show the average times the base silicone has been reacted with each of those two helpers. This mix gives the molecule both oil loving and water loving parts so it can sit at the border between the two. Modern silicone chemistry began in the 1940s and by the 1980s brands were looking for gentler ways to blend water and oil in skin care. Chemists found that by adding PEG and PPG chains to dimethicone they could get a smooth feel without heavy greasiness which led to the birth of this ingredient.
The process starts with dimethicone, a smooth clear liquid made from sand-derived silica. Through controlled reactions with ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, the PEG and PPG pieces are attached in set amounts. The final fluid is purified, checked for quality then shipped to cosmetic labs.
Because it helps water and oil stay mixed, Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone shows up in many leave-on and rinse-off products. You can spot it in lightweight moisturizers, sunscreens, primers, liquid foundations, hair conditioners, sheet mask serums and gentle cleansing balms where it keeps the formula stable and gives a silky finish.
Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient’s main job is to act as an emulsifier. By sitting at the border of water and oil droplets it keeps a lotion or cream from splitting, which means the product stays smooth, spreadable and effective from the first pump to the last use.
Who Can Use Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone
This silicone-based emulsifier is broadly well-tolerated and suits most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin because it forms a breathable film that locks in moisture without a heavy greasy feel. Very acne-prone or highly reactive skin may prefer to monitor how it performs since any film-forming ingredient can occasionally trap existing oil and debris, though this is uncommon with lightweight silicones like this one.
Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone is synthetically produced from silica and petroleum-derived gases so it contains no animal-derived material. That makes it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product is not tested on animals according to personal standards.
The ingredient is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it sits on the skin’s surface and is not readily absorbed. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to their doctor just to be on the safe side.
It does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. As always daily sunscreen is still recommended as part of a complete routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone can differ from person to person. The points below outline possible side effects yet they are not the typical experience for the majority of users when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation – a small number of people may notice redness or itching, usually due to sensitivity to the PEG or PPG portion rather than the silicone itself
- Allergic contact dermatitis – very rare but possible if someone develops an allergy to the molecule or trace impurities
- Clogged pores or breakouts – those prone to congestion might experience sporadic blemishes if the occlusive film traps sebum and dead skin cells
- Eye stinging or watering – if a product containing the ingredient migrates into the eyes it can cause temporary discomfort
- Slippery residue on hard surfaces – rinsing hair or skin care with this silicone can make bathtubs or shower floors slick, increasing the risk of slips
If you experience any negative reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone forms a very light, breathable film that lets water vapor escape and has a large molecular size so it tends to sit on top of the skin rather than seeping into pores. These traits make it far less likely to block follicles compared with heavier silicones or plant waxes, which is why it scores a low 1.
Most acne-prone users can usually tolerate this ingredient without extra breakouts.
Keep in mind that overall formula matters; if a product pairs this silicone with rich oils or butters the finished blend could still feel too occlusive for very congested skin.
Summary
Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone is a hybrid silicone that acts mainly as an emulsifier, helping water and oil mingle so creams stay smooth and stable. Its dual water-loving and oil-loving structure positions it at the droplet interface, preventing separation while adding a silky, non-greasy glide.
It shows up in moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup and conditioners but is not as buzz-worthy as classic dimethicone or trendy natural emulsifiers, so it tends to stay in the background doing reliable work.
Safety reviews find it non-sensitizing and non-toxic at the levels used in cosmetics. Still, skin can react unpredictably, so patch test any new product that lists Peg/Ppg-22/24 Dimethicone to be sure it suits you.