PEG-12 Dimethicone

Good

Emollient

PEG-12 Dimethicone at a glance

  • Blend of skin-protective dimethicone + a lightweight polyethylene glycol
  • Functions as a hair/skin-conditioning agent
  • Also helps improve the texture and perceived finish of skin care formulas
  • Deemed a safe cosmetic ingredient

PEG-12 Dimethicone description

PEG-12 dimethicone is a silicone blend of skin-protective dimethicone and a lightweight polyethylene glycol. It functions as a hair/skin-conditioning agent. It can also help improve the overall texture and finish of skin care formulas. In its raw material form, PEG-12 dimethicone comes as a clear liquid that ranges from colourless to yellow in appearance. In a 2015 report, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed PEG-12 dimethicone as safe in cosmetic use. Their report looked at 538 products using PEG-12 dimethicone up to a maximum concentration of 6.5%.

PEG-12 Dimethicone references

  • Toxicological Research, June 2015, pages 105–136
  • Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, January 2015, pages 817–826
  • The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, January 2015, pages 1-46
  • https://online.personalcarecouncil.org/ctfa-static/online/lists/cir-pdfs/FR664.pdf
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, June 2007, pages 211–218

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.