What it is
PEG/PPG-30/10 Dimethicone is a dimethicone backbone modified with both polyethylene glycol (about 30 ethylene oxide units) and polypropylene glycol (about 10 propylene oxide units) side chains. This combination of water-loving, oil-loving, and silicone segments makes it an effective nonionic emulsifier, especially for water-in-silicone systems, while adding smooth slip. It is used in sunscreens and other leave-on products to stabilize emulsions and refine application feel.
Safety & warnings
Silicone polyethers of this type are generally well tolerated, low in irritation potential, and non-comedogenic at cosmetic use levels. As with other ethoxylated materials, the ethylene oxide portion should be sourced to control trace 1,4-dioxane. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic. It is made by grafting polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol chains onto a dimethicone (silicone) backbone.
Questions everyone asks
How does this differ from PEG-8 Dimethicone?
This grade carries both PEG and PPG chains on the silicone backbone, which changes its solubility balance and emulsifying behavior.
What is it used for in sunscreens?
It serves as an emulsifier for water-in-silicone systems and provides a smooth, light feel during application.