PEG-12 dimethicone
PEG-12 Dimethicone
- Role
- A silicone polymer with polyethylene glycol chains that conditions the skin.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Skin care
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
Dimethicone modified with polyethylene glycol segments (an average of 12 ethylene oxide units). INCI functions: skin conditioning and hair conditioning.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In roll-ons, sprays and gels it is part of the texture system and affects how the formula feels on the skin. It does not reduce sweating.
The CIR summary table (2014) lists PEG-12 Dimethicone as safe: the 1982 conclusion on dimethicone copolyols was confirmed, and a final report on this group of silicones was issued in December 2014.
It is generally used as a supporting ingredient; an individual reaction to the finished product is possible.
Not the same as Dimethicone: PEG-12 Dimethicone has polyethylene glycol segments attached to its silicone chain, which ordinary dimethicone lacks. Nor is it PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, which also carries polypropylene glycol chains and is an emulsifier under INCI.
Products containing PEG-12 dimethicone
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- EU CosIng: PEG-12 Dimethicone Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): PEG-12 Dimethicone Supports: substance description
- CIR: Quick Reference Table (summary of conclusions, 2014) Supports: safety conclusion