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PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE

Last update on Jun 12, 2026

PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone is a type of silicone that has many benefits in the world of cosmetics and personal care. It works in formulations to improve their texture and spreadability. It is also a great cleansing agent which makes it quite beneficial for personal care products. PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone can mainly be found in products such as shampoos, conditioners, makeup and styling products and styling creams.

CAS Number: Chem/IUPAC Name: Siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, 3-hydroxypropyl methyl, ethoxylated, propoxylated (18 mol EO, 18 mol PO average molar ratio)EINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 57121

Products with PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE

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Emfinity® SPE 6373

by BRB International BV

INCI: CYCLOPENTASILOXANE | PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE

What is PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE used for?

PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone in skin care has many functions. It lubricates the surface and locks in moisture to keep it smooth and supple. Moreover, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone forms a protective layer on the skin to keep it safe from the harmful environmental stressors. Its use in cosmetics help the products have a better texture which improves the spreadability. PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone is also used in hair care products as it helps with moisturization and conditioning. However, it is not too good for hair care products as PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone can cause build up on hair and lead to hair loss.

Origin

PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone is a synthetic ingredient that has polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) polymer, a silicone based polymer and dimethicone. During the manufacturing process, it may get contaminated with toxic impurities like 1,4-dioxane - which is properly filtered out before usage in the cosmetic industry.

What does PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE do in a formulation?

CLEANSING|
MOISTURISING|
SMOOTHING|
SKIN CONDITIONING

Safety Profile

PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care. However, it is considered toxic because of the presence of 1,4-dioxane in it while manufacturing - which is a possible human carcinogen. Proper filtration process in place makes PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone safe. Lastly, it is non-comedogenic and does not cause acne or breakouts.

PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE alternatives

PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE technical profile

PropertyValues
Boiling Point3265°C
Melting Point1420°C
SolubilitySoluble in water