Ingredient dictionary

PEG-12 Dimethicone

PEG-12 Dimethicone is a silicone with water-loving side chains added. It helps oil and water blend, and it smooths hair and skin. It is on the label of 6 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: silicones are flagged here because some people avoid them in curly-hair routines or to cut build-up, though they are considered safe.

Silicones. Smoothing film-formers ending in -cone or -siloxane, such as dimethicone.

What PEG-12 Dimethicone does

Blends oil and water into stable mixes
Smooths and softens hair and skin
Adds slip for easier detangling
Helps products spread evenly

PEG-12 Dimethicone is made by attaching short chains of polyethylene glycol, a water-friendly polymer, to dimethicone, a common silicone. The result is a silicone that can mix with water-based ingredients. Chemists call this type a silicone polyether.

Formulators use it mainly as an emulsifier, which helps oil and water stay blended in creams, lotions and serums. It also adds slip and softness, so hair detangles more easily and skin feels smooth. It spreads easily and leaves a soft, non-greasy feel in most formulas.

Good for

Suits people who like smooth, slippery hair or a silky feel on skin, and who are comfortable with silicones.

Frequently asked questions

Is PEG-12 Dimethicone safe?

PEG-12 Dimethicone is considered safe for use in cosmetics, and most people tolerate it well. If a product ever irritates your skin or scalp, stop using it and ask a dermatologist for advice.

Does PEG-12 Dimethicone cause build-up on hair?

Like other silicones, it can leave a thin film on hair over time. That film can make hair feel heavy or dull for some people. Clarifying shampoos help remove it, and people with curly hair often limit silicone products for this reason.