What Is Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone?
Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone is a specialty silicone that has been modified with both perfluorinated chains and small polyethylene glycol (PEG) segments. The silicone backbone gives it the characteristic silky slip of dimethicone, the perfluorinated side chain adds a water- and oil-repelling quality, and the PEG portion helps the ingredient disperse in water-based formulas. Chemists first explored these hybrid structures in the early 2000s while searching for new ways to create breathable yet long-lasting cosmetic films. The ingredient is synthesized in several steps: a dimethicone polymer is functionalized with a carboxydecyl group, reacted with a short PEG-8 chain, then coupled to a nonafluorononyl ethyl fragment. Each step is done under controlled temperature and vacuum to keep the reactive fluorinated and silicone parts stable.
Because it combines slick feel, light film formation, and the ability to float between oil and water phases, Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone quickly gained popularity in cosmetic labs. Today it appears in high-performance primers, long-wear foundations, hydrating serums, sheet masks, anti-pollution moisturizers and certain hair smoothing sprays. Formulators value its capacity to enhance spreadability without leaving a heavy residue while also improving the durability of makeup and skin care finishes.
Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetic formulas this ingredient plays a single but important role.
Skin conditioning: It forms a lightweight, breathable film on the skin that locks in moisture, smooths rough texture and imparts a soft, velvety afterfeel. The film can also help shield the skin from environmental grime which is why it is often included in urban or anti-pollution product lines.
Who Can Use Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone
This silicone-fluorinated hybrid suits most skin types, from normal and dry to combination and oily. Its feather-light film helps dry skin hold on to water without feeling greasy and it does not clog pores or feel heavy on oilier complexions. Extremely sensitive or highly reactive skin may want to proceed with a bit more caution because the fluorinated portion is unfamiliar to some complexions and could, in rare cases, prompt irritation.
The ingredient is synthetic and contains no animal-derived material so it is considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No data points to safety problems for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should check with a healthcare professional before adding any new skincare product.
Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used day or night without increasing the risk of sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential reactions and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin that struggles with any new synthetic film formers
- Contact dermatitis in people with a specific allergy to silicones or fluorinated compounds, though such allergies are uncommon
- Temporary clogged pores if the product formula pairs this ingredient with heavy waxes or butters and is not fully removed
- Eye irritation if a product containing the ingredient accidentally enters the eyes during application
If irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a medical professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone forms an ultrathin, silky film that lets water vapor pass while keeping heavy oils from settling into pores. Its fluorinated tail repels sebum and the short PEG chain helps it rinse away cleanly, so it is far less likely to trap debris than thicker silicones or waxes. Because of that low tendency to block pores this ingredient is generally fine for skin that breaks out easily. As with any film former the final product’s overall texture and additional ingredients will ultimately decide how pore friendly it is, so lightweight gels and serums remain the best match.
Summary
Perfluorononylethyl Carboxydecyl Peg-8 Dimethicone is a hybrid silicone that conditions skin by laying down a breathable, moisture-locking veil. The dimethicone backbone supplies slip and softness, the fluorinated side chain adds water and oil resistance for longer wear, and the PEG segment helps it blend into both oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems. These combined talents make it popular in long-wear makeup, protective moisturizers and smoothing serums, though it is still a niche pick compared with classic dimethicone.
Current safety data and years of cosmetic use show it is well tolerated by most skin types with only rare irritation reports. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product that contains it to make sure your skin agrees before including it in a daily routine.