PEG-8 Dimethicone
PEG-8 Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient used in many UK skincare, haircare and makeup products. It acts as a lightweight conditioning agent, emulsifier and skin protectant, giving formulas a silky, non-greasy feel. Shoppers often find it in serums, moisturisers, primers and leave-in hair treatments.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare PEG-8 Dimethicone is a water-soluble silicone surfactant that helps blend oil and water-based ingredients while forming a breathable, flexible film on skin and hair. This film delivers a smooth, velvety after-feel, reduces friction and helps lock in moisture without the heavy or occlusive texture associated with traditional silicones. It is frequently used in lightweight facial serums, primers, BB creams, conditioners and styling sprays where slip, shine and a soft finish are desired.
Key benefits
- Provides silky-smooth feel on skin and hair
- Improves product spreadability and even application
- Helps reduce frizz and adds shine to hair
- Forms a lightweight protective film that locks in moisture
- Enhances the slip and glide of makeup and skincare formulas
- Gives a soft, non-greasy finish
Best for
normal skin, dry skin, combination skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
PEG-8 Dimethicone is produced by reacting dimethicone (a silicone polymer derived from quartz sand) with polyethylene glycol. While the silicone base is mineral in origin, the PEG portion is typically derived from petroleum or plant-based ethylene oxide.
Products with PEG-8 Dimethicone
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain PEG-8 Dimethicone than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.
We haven’t matched this ingredient to a product ingredients list yet — check back as more pages are enriched.