What Is Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate?
Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate is a specialty silicone-based ingredient derived from dimethicone that has been modified with a small amount of polyethylene glycol (PEG) phosphate and then neutralized with triethanolamine (TEA). The result is a hybrid molecule that combines the silky feel of silicones with the water friendliness of a mild surfactant. This unique structure lets it sit comfortably between oil and water, helping formulas stay stable while giving skin a light, conditioned finish.
Synthetic silicones first gained popularity in the 1950s for their slip and water resistance. Chemists later discovered that attaching PEG units and phosphate groups could turn normally water-repelling dimethicone into a gentle cleanser and emulsifier. Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate was developed during the 1990s as part of this push to create silicone materials that rinse off easily without the heavy buildup older silicones were known for.
Manufacturing starts with medical-grade dimethicone. Through controlled reactions, a 3-carbon hydroxypropyl group is added, followed by ethoxylation that grafts roughly seven ethylene oxide units. The final step introduces phosphoric acid, then TEA neutralizes the acid, producing a stable salt that disperses in both oil and water phases.
You will most often see Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, lightweight moisturizers, sheet masks, scalp scrubs and hybrid skincare-makeup primers. Its versatility also makes it useful in baby care washes and sensitive-skin formulas where mildness is essential.
Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multi-talented ingredient supports several key roles in modern skincare and haircare products
- Cleansing – Its amphiphilic structure lifts away excess oil, sunscreen, pollutants and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural barrier, leaving a soft afterfeel
- Emulsifying – It helps blend water and oil into smooth, stable emulsions, cutting down on the need for heavier emulsifiers and allowing for lighter textures
Who Can Use Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin because it cleanses without stripping moisture and leaves only a light conditioning film. Sensitive skin usually does fine with it too thanks to its mild, low foaming nature, though anyone with a known silicone or PEG allergy should avoid it since these components form the backbone of the molecule.
Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate is produced entirely from synthetic feedstocks, not animal derived materials, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product also meets their ethical standards.
The large size of the molecule keeps it on the surface of skin so systemic absorption is considered negligible. Current safety data shows no reproductive toxicity, which means products containing it are typically viewed as safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have their doctor review any skincare routine just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so there is no extra risk of sunburn when using it during the day. It is also fragrance free and non volatile so it will not aggravate respiratory conditions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects which remain uncommon when the ingredient is used at the low levels found in finished cosmetics.
- Mild redness or stinging in very reactive or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a pre existing sensitivity to silicones PEGs phosphate esters or triethanolamine
- Transient eye irritation if the product is rubbed directly into the eyes before rinsing
- Build up on hair or scalp leading to dullness or limp strands when rinse off products are not thoroughly removed
If you experience any of the above reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate sits mostly on the surface of skin and has a lightweight, rinse-friendly character so it is very unlikely to clog pores. Unlike heavier, oily silicones, its partial water solubility lets it wash away cleanly which keeps residue minimal. It contains no fatty acids or waxes that commonly trigger blackheads. For these reasons it earns a low score of 1.
That also means the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the formula is also low in pore-clogging components.
One useful note: some leave-on primers that pair this silicone with richer oils could still feel occlusive on very oily skin so always consider the full ingredient list of the product, not just this single component.
Summary
Tea-Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate is a modern hybrid silicone that cleanses, emulsifies and conditions in one go. Its amphiphilic structure lets it hug both oil and water so it lifts grime, stabilizes creams and leaves a silky afterfeel without heavy buildup.
It is not a blockbuster name like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, yet formulators value it for creating ultra-light textures in micellar waters, gentle face washes and scalp care products. You will often see it tucked midway down an ingredient list quietly doing its job.
Safety profiles show it to be low irritant, non photosensitizing and safe for most skin types including during pregnancy with a doctor’s clearance. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this or any other active before full use.