PEG/PPG-16/8 Dimethicone
AKA: Silicone Glycol Copolymer, Dimethicone Copolyol
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Silicone
Not Clean
Siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, 3-hydroxypropyl methyl, ethoxylated, propoxylated (16 mol EO, 8 mol PO average molar ratio)
Form
Liquid
Functions
Antifoaming
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic polymer combining polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and silicone technology, developed in the late 20th century. Created to provide enhanced conditioning and texture in contemporary cosmetic formulations.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR