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PEG-3 Dimethicone

What PEG-3 Dimethicone is & what it does

PEG-3 Dimethicone is a silicone modified with a small polyethylene glycol chain, making it partly water-compatible. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it functions chiefly as an emulsifier and a conditioning agent, helping create stable, smooth, spreadable textures. Silicone-based ingredients like this are valued for the silky, non-greasy slip they give a product.

Is PEG-3 Dimethicone safe in skincare?

PEG-3 Dimethicone is a water-compatible silicone used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and conditioning agent, and is generally considered suitable for topical use at typical formula levels. It is a functional ingredient rather than an active. As with any ingredient, those with known sensitivities should review the label.

Does PEG-3 Dimethicone clog pores?

PEG-3 Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient used for slip and emulsification, and silicones of this type are not generally considered strongly pore-clogging, though individual responses can vary. Whether a finished product feels pore-clogging depends on the overall formula. People prone to congestion may prefer to patch test a new product.

Is PEG-3 Dimethicone natural or synthetic?

PEG-3 Dimethicone is a synthetic ingredient, a silicone modified with a polyethylene glycol chain. It is manufactured rather than taken from a plant or animal. As a synthetic with no animal-derived material, it is generally considered suitable for vegan formulas.

Sunscreens with PEG-3 Dimethicone

We rate 7 sunscreens that contain it:

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