What Is Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone?
Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone is a hybrid silicone made by bonding a dimethicone backbone to polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) chains in an average ratio of 23 ethylene oxide units to 6 propylene oxide units. The dimethicone portion is derived from silica that has been processed into siloxane chains, while the PEG and PPG segments originate from controlled reactions of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide gases with alcohol initiators. Combining these parts yields a molecule that carries the silky feel of traditional silicones yet mixes readily with water thanks to the PEG/PPG groups.
Silicones entered personal care in the 1950s for their slip and barrier properties. As formulators looked for ingredients that spread well in both oil and water phases, chemists in the 1990s began attaching PEG and PPG blocks to dimethicone, creating a new class of water-dispersible silicones such as Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone. Production involves first polymerising dimethylsiloxane units, then sequentially ethoxylating and propoxylating the terminal silanol groups under controlled temperature and pressure. The result is a clear, slightly viscous liquid that is easy to incorporate into modern cosmetic formulations.
You will find Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone in a wide range of topical products including facial cleansers, makeup removers, micellar waters, moisturisers, sunscreens, serums, primers, anti aging creams, hair conditioners, masks and leave-in treatments. Its dual affinity for oil and water lets it stabilise complex formulas while delivering a smooth non-greasy finish.
Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient supports a formulation in two main ways:
- Emulsion stabilising: By positioning its silicone portion in oil droplets and its PEG/PPG side chains in the surrounding water phase, Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone keeps oil and water from separating. The result is a cream or lotion that looks uniform, feels lightweight and maintains its texture over time.
- Cleansing: The same amphiphilic structure helps lift makeup, sebum and everyday grime from skin or hair then rinse them away without leaving a heavy residue. It can boost the mildness of a cleanser because it reduces the need for harsher surfactants.
Thanks to its lightweight non-greasy texture Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry. Its silky film can even help buffer sensitive or easily irritated skin by reducing friction yet it is not so occlusive that it traps heat or sweat. People with very acne-prone skin generally tolerate it well because the molecule is too large to sink into pores, though anyone extremely reactive to silicones in general might prefer to avoid it.
The ingredient is fully synthetic, made from silica and petrochemical feedstocks, so it contains no animal-derived substances. That makes it compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles provided the finished product is manufactured by a cruelty-free brand.
No reproductive toxicity has been linked to topical use of Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone. Its high molecular weight limits skin penetration, so pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use products containing it. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the product to a qualified healthcare provider before adding it to a routine.
Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone does not absorb UV light and does not cause photosensitivity. It is also fragrance-free and unlikely to interfere with common actives like retinol or vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses can vary and the following outlines potential issues only. When formulated correctly most users experience none of these effects.
- Transient stinging or warmth on very sensitive skin
- Mild redness or itching due to rare silicone sensitivity
- Contact dermatitis in individuals already allergic to silicones or PEGs
- Temporary buildup on hair strands leading to dullness if not cleansed properly
- Very occasional pore congestion in those who are highly prone to closed comedones
If you experience any undesirable reaction discontinue use and seek advice from a dermatologist or healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone sits at the low end of the scale because its molecule is large and water-dispersible, which keeps it on the surface rather than sliding into pores where blockages form. It also forms a breathable, lightweight film that lets excess oil escape instead of trapping it. This makes it generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. People who layer many silicone-rich products without proper cleansing might still notice minor congestion, but that is more about routine than the ingredient itself.
Summary
Peg/Ppg-23/6 Dimethicone mainly stabilises emulsions and boosts gentle cleansing. It anchors its silicone portion inside oil droplets while its PEG/PPG tails mingle with water, keeping creams and lotions uniform. The same dual nature lets it surround makeup, sunscreen and sebum then rinse them away without stripping skin or hair.
Although not as famous as plain dimethicone or popular plant oils, this hybrid silicone appears in a growing number of cleansers, moisturisers and hair products because formulators value its versatility and silky after-feel.
Safety profiles from industry and independent reviews show very low irritation and sensitisation potential. Still, every skin is unique so patch testing any new product is a smart move.