PEG/PPG-4/12 Dimethicone
AKA “Silicone Surfactant, Silicone Emulsifier
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Peg/ppg-4/12 dimethicone
AKA: Silicone Surfactant, Silicone Emulsifier
Surfactant · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Silicone
Not Clean
Siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, 3-hydroxypropyl methyl, ethoxylated, propoxylated (4 mol EO, 12 mol PO average molar ratio)
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic silicone-based polymer developed for cosmetic use as an emollient and conditioning agent. Created to provide lightweight hydration and smooth skin feel in modern skincare products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
CANADApermitted
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR