PEG-8 Dimethicone

Good

Silicone

PEG-8 Dimethicone at a glance

  • Synthetic replenishing agent that has a softening effect on skin and hair
  • Can be used as an oil-in-water emulsifier to enhance the overall texture of a formula
  • May help to “detackify” ingredients in formulations
  • Adds moisture to surfactant-based products such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleanser
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use

PEG-8 Dimethicone description

PEG-8 dimethicone is a synthetic replenishing agent that has a softening effect on skin and hair. It can also be used as an oil-in-water emulsifier to enhance the overall texture of a formula. Suppliers of this ingredient note additional properties, including its ability to “detackify” sticky-feeling ingredients in formulations, as well as adding moisture to surfactant-based products such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. The raw material is described as a clear liquid. The 2014 Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessment looked at various beauty products containing 0.024%-5.6% PEG-8 dimethicone and deemed this concentration range was safe for cosmetic use. This ingredient is found in a wide range of personal care products including facial creams, body lotions, hair care serums, and makeup.

PEG-8 Dimethicone references

  • Skin Research and Technology, December 2019, pages 558–563
  • Household and Personal Care Today, June 2018, pages 60-65
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, January 2015, pages 1-46
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2008, pages 120–126
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, January 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.