What Is Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate?
Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate is a water-dispersible silicone surfactant made by taking dimethicone, attaching seven units of polyethylene glycol (PEG-7), sulfating those PEG chains then neutralising the mixture with ammonium. The result is a hybrid molecule that marries the silky feel of silicone with the cleansing and spreading abilities of a mild sulfate salt. The raw materials are typically silica-derived dimethicone, ethylene oxide for the PEG portion and sulfur trioxide for the sulfation step. This chemistry first gained traction in the 1990s when formulators looked for gentler alternatives to traditional sulfates that could still leave skin feeling soft. Today it is produced in closed reactors where dimethicone is ethoxylated, sulfated, washed and finally reacted with ammonium hydroxide before being filtered and quality tested.
Because it is both oil loving and water loving, Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate is used in a wide range of rinse-off and leave-on products. You will often spot it in facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, lightweight moisturisers, makeup removers, hair shampoos and conditioners where a smooth after-feel is desired.
Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient is valued mainly for its ability to condition the skin while keeping formulas light and easy to rinse.
As a skin conditioning agent it forms an invisible breathable film that leaves the surface soft and silky, helps trap a small amount of moisture, improves product spreadability and cuts the tackiness or dryness that stronger surfactants can cause.
Who Can Use Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate
This ingredient is generally considered suitable for every skin type including oily, combination, normal, dry and even sensitive skin because it is mild and non stripping while supplying a light conditioning feel. Extremely acne-prone users who react to any type of silicone might prefer to proceed cautiously since rare silicone sensitivities can occur but for most people it will not clog pores or feel heavy.
Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate is produced from mineral-derived silicone, plant-based ethylene oxide and synthetic sulfur sources so no animal ingredients or by-products are involved. That makes it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety assessments have not flagged any reproductive or developmental risks, so products containing this ingredient are generally viewed as safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run all skincare plans past a qualified healthcare professional first just to be sure.
The molecule does not make skin more reactive to sunlight and will not interfere with sunscreen, so there is no added photosensitivity concern. It also plays well alongside common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids without altering their effectiveness.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The following list covers potential issues that might arise from topical use of Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate, though they remain uncommon when the raw material is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific silicone or sulfate allergy
- Stinging or burning if applied to broken or highly compromised skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally enters the eyes during use
- Build-up or a filmy feel on very fine hair or extremely oily skin when used in high concentrations
If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for tailored advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate is mostly water dispersible and forms a very light breathable film, so it is far less likely to block pores than heavier water-insoluble silicones. Its sulfate end also helps it rinse cleanly, further reducing residue that could trap oil or dead skin cells. For these reasons formulators and dermatology references generally classify it at the low end of the comedogenic scale.
Because the rating sits at 1, the ingredient is usually considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Keep in mind overall formula matters: if a product contains high levels of waxes or rich butters, those other ingredients might raise the pore-clogging potential even though Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate itself is low risk.
Summary
Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate is a hybrid silicone-surfactant that conditions skin while helping products spread easily and rinse off without a greasy after-feel. It attracts both oil and water, forming a soft protective layer that leaves skin feeling smooth and lightly hydrated.
You will mainly find it in facial cleansers, micellar waters, lightweight lotions and some shampoos. It is not the most buzzed-about ingredient on social media but formulators appreciate its mildness and silky finish, so it turns up in many mid-range and dermatologist-recommended products.
Current safety data show very low toxicity, minimal irritation risk and no links to hormonal or reproductive issues, making it a safe choice for everyday use. As with any new cosmetic though, do a quick patch test when trying a product that contains Ammonium Dimethicone Peg-7 Sulfate to be on the safe side.