PEG/PPG-23/6 Dimethicone
AKA: Silicone Surfactant, Silicone Emulsifier
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Silicone
Not Clean
Siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, 3-hydroxypropyl methyl, ethoxylated, propoxylated (23 mol EO, 6 mol PO average molar ratio)
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Stabilizes Emulsion
Cleansing Surfactant
Lifts away dirt and oil
Keeps product blended
Traditional Use
A silicone copolymer developed in the late 20th century for cosmetic use. Designed to improve emulsification and provide conditioning benefits in skincare products.
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
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR