What Is Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone?
Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone is a specialty silicone that has been chemically linked with an average of 19 units of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and 19 units of polypropylene glycol (PPG). It starts with dimethicone, a smooth synthetic polymer made from silica. Through a controlled reaction the dimethicone backbone is first treated with ethylene oxide then with propylene oxide. This double step gives the molecule both water friendly and oil loving sections, turning a normally water-repelling silicone into one that can mix comfortably with watery ingredients.
Synthetic silicones entered personal care in the 1950s for their silky slip. By the 1980s chemists began adding PEG and PPG blocks to improve spreadability and to let silicones help build stable emulsions. Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone is one of those next-generation hybrids and has been used in skin and hair products for several decades.
You will most often spot it in lightweight facial moisturizers, hydrating serums, sunscreens, primers, color cosmetics, sheet masks, hair conditioners and leave-in smoothing sprays. Anywhere a formula needs a velvety after-feel without a greasy film, this ingredient is a popular choice.
Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a cosmetic formula Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone functions primarily as an emulsifier. Its dual nature lets it sit at the boundary between oil and water droplets, holding them together so the product stays uniform from the first pump to the last. A stable emulsion means a smoother texture, better spread on skin or hair and improved delivery of the other active ingredients.
Who Can Use Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone
This silicone-based emulsifier is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin because it forms a breathable surface layer that helps reduce moisture loss without clogging pores for most people. Those with very silicone-averse or highly reactive skin might prefer to avoid it, but such cases are uncommon.
The ingredient is synthesized from mineral-derived raw materials with no animal input so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety assessments show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider.
Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone does not increase photosensitivity and poses no known interaction with sun exposure.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone vary from person to person. The effects listed below are potential outcomes only and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild transient redness or warmth immediately after application
- Rare stinging sensation on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Isolated cases of clogged pores in individuals already prone to heavy congestion
- Contact dermatitis in people with a specific silicone sensitivity
If irritation or any unwanted reaction occurs discontinue use and seek guidance from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
The dimethicone backbone forms a breathable sheet on the skin while the 19/19 PEG-PPG side chains make it partially water soluble which helps it rinse away and prevents a heavy buildup. This combination leaves very little chance for pore blockage so the ingredient earns a low score of 1.
It is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Keep in mind overall formula richness matters too. If a product pairs this silicone with large amounts of butters or waxes even a low-comedogenic emulsifier cannot offset that weight.
Summary
Peg/Ppg-19/19 Dimethicone is a hybrid silicone that doubles as an emulsifier and slip agent. Its water-loving PEG-PPG arms anchor into the aqueous phase while the dimethicone part anchors into oils locking the two together so lotions stay mixed and glide on effortlessly.
It appears in a fair number of modern formulas especially where a light velvet touch is desired but it remains less common than plain dimethicone because of its higher cost and specialized role.
Safety assessments show it to be non irritating non sensitising and essentially inert at the levels used in cosmetics. Still skin can be unpredictable so patch test any new product containing this ingredient to be safe.