PEG-10 Dimethicone CAS 68937-54-2

PEG-10 Dimethicone – Silicone-Based Emulsifier and Skin Conditioner for Cosmetic Formulations

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 68937-54-2

• INCI Name: PEG-10 Dimethicone

• Synonyms: Polyethylene glycol (10) dimethicone, PEG-10 polydimethylsiloxane

• Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy, viscous liquid

• HLB Value: ~4–6 (lipophilic, suitable for W/O and O/W emulsions)

• Solubility: Partially soluble in water; dispersible in oils and organic solvents

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
PEG-10 dimethicone is a non-ionic silicone emulsifier composed of a linear polydimethylsiloxane chain grafted with polyethylene glycol (PEG) segments. The PEG-10 designation refers to an average of 10 ethylene oxide units per molecule. This unique structure combines the hydrophobic properties of dimethicone with the hydrophilic properties of PEG, creating a highly amphiphilic molecule that effectively reduces interfacial tension between oil and water phases. This makes it an excellent emulsifier and stabilizer for both water-in-oil (W/O) and oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
PEG-10 dimethicone is synthesized by the copolymerization of dimethicone with ethylene oxide, resulting in a polymer with a dimethicone backbone and PEG side chains. The general structure can be represented as:
[–Si(CH₃)₂–O–]ₙ–O–(CH₂CH₂O)₁₀–H
The ratio of dimethicone to PEG units can be adjusted to achieve the desired hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) and emulsifying properties.

Physicochemical Properties

• Amphiphilic: Balances hydrophilic and lipophilic properties, enabling effective emulsification.

• Emulsifying activity: Stabilizes both W/O and O/W emulsions, providing fine, uniform textures.

• Skin conditioning: Imparts a smooth, silky, non-greasy feel to skin and hair.

• Good spreadability: Enhances product application and active ingredient delivery.

• Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of oils, silicones, esters, and other cosmetic ingredients.

• Stability: Provides excellent emulsion stability and prevents phase separation.

• Mild and non-irritating: Suitable for sensitive skin applications.

Applications

• Skin care: Moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and anti-aging creams – provides stable emulsions, smooth texture, and enhanced skin feel.

• Hair care: Conditioners, serums, and styling products – improves spreadability, adds shine, and reduces frizz.

• Color cosmetics: Foundations, primers, and lipsticks – improves pigment dispersion, application, and wear.

• Silicone emulsions: Used in the preparation of stable silicone-in-water and water-in-silicone emulsions.

• Other: Suitable for use in antiperspirants, deodorants, and personal care products.

Key Benefits

• Excellent emulsifying and stabilizing properties for W/O and O/W systems.

• Provides a smooth, silky, non-greasy skin feel.

• Enhances product spreadability and active ingredient delivery.

• Improves emulsion stability and prevents phase separation.

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.

• Mild and non-irritating – suitable for sensitive skin.

• Acts as a co-emulsifier and stabilizer in complex formulations.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–10% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, viscosity, and skin feel. For optimal performance, incorporate into the oil phase with gentle heating (50–60°C) before emulsification. Can be combined with other emulsifiers and thickeners for tailored rheology.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well-tolerated by skin and eyes.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for HLB value, viscosity, and emulsification performance to ensure consistent quality and compliance with cosmetic standards.