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Ingredient deep-dive

Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernSilicone

Silicone modified with PEG and PPG chains to make it water-dispersible. Sits in both the silicone and ethoxylate conversations; not a microplastic.

Where it appears

  • Hair conditioners
  • Water-based serums
  • Cleansing balms

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; ethoxylated ingredients require 1,4-dioxane purity control.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

  • Behentrimonium methosulfate
  • Plant-oil conditioning

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Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone, common questions

Is Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone a microplastic?

Borderline. Silicone modified with PEG and PPG chains to make it water-dispersible. Sits in both the silicone and ethoxylate conversations; not a microplastic.

Is Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone banned?

EU: Permitted; ethoxylated ingredients require 1,4-dioxane purity control. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone?

Cleaner alternatives include: Behentrimonium methosulfate; Plant-oil conditioning.

What products contain Bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone?

Commonly found in: Hair conditioners; Water-based serums; Cleansing balms.

Related ingredients

Dimethicone

Silicone · Medium concern

Silicone polymer (polydimethylsiloxane). Not the same as solid microplastic but classed as a synthetic polymer; EU is consulting on tighter limits.

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Cyclomethicone / Cyclopentasiloxane

Silicone · Medium concern

Cyclic siloxanes. D4 and D5 variants are EU-restricted in rinse-off products.

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Trimethicone / Phenyl Trimethicone

Silicone · Low concern

Silicone polymer variant used for slip and shine.

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Polysilicone-X

Silicone · Medium concern

Synthetic silicone polymer family used as film-formers in long-wear makeup.

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