Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone is an amine-modified silicone (amodimethicone) linked to C13-15 alkyl groups and polyethylene glycol (PG). It is primarily used in hair care products for its conditioning, smoothing, and film-forming properties. It helps improve hair texture, reduce frizz, enhance combability, and protect hair from thermal and environmental damage.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone features alkyl chains (C13-15) bonded to an amine-modified silicone with polyethylene glycol. This composition allows it to interact effectively with the hair surface, forming a protective film that smooths the cuticle without weighing the hair down. The amine groups selectively adhere to damaged areas of the hair, while the alkyl chains enhance compatibility with oil-based formulations.

The name describes the structure of the molecule.

• Bis indicates that there are two identical functional groups in the molecule.
• C13-15 Alkoxy refers to an alkyl group (carbon chain) with a length of 13-15 carbon atoms, which is attached through an oxygen (ether group).
• PG:  a linkage with propylene glycol.
• Amodimethicone is a variant of dimethicone, which is a type of silicone. The "Amodi" part suggests that there are some modifications to the base structure of dimethicone.

Production Process

Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone is produced through the chemical modification of dimethicone (a linear silicone) with amine groups and the addition of C13-15 alkyl chains and polyethylene glycol. This process creates a silicone with unique properties for enhancing hair condition while protecting the hair fiber. 

• Preparation of Components: The main ingredients for producing Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone include amodimethicone, C13-15 fatty alcohols, and propylene glycol (PG). These components are weighed and prepared for the reaction.

• Esterification Reaction: Amodimethicone is mixed with C13-15 fatty alcohols in a chemical reactor. This esterification process occurs in the presence of a catalyst, usually an acid, to promote the formation of bonds between the molecules.

• Incorporation of Propylene Glycol: Once the esterification is complete, propylene glycol is added to the mixture to stabilize the final product. This step is crucial to ensure that the emollient and conditioning properties are retained.

• Purification: The resulting product is purified to remove any impurities and chemical residues. This may include distillation or filtration processes to ensure a high-quality product.

• Quality Control and Packaging: Finally, Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone undergoes quality control checks to verify its purity and functional properties. After analysis, it is packaged for distribution and use in cosmetic products.

Function of Components

Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone is a type of water-soluble silicone used in hair and skin care products. It provides a smooth and silky feel, helps detangle hair, and forms a lightweight barrier on the skin or hair, protecting them and retaining moisture.

Raw Materials Used in Production.

• Saccharides: primarily derived through fermentation.
• Water: used in the fermentation and extraction process.
• Fermentation Agents: for creating the biopolymer through fermentation.

Step-by-step Summary of Industrial Production Process.

• Preparation and Fermentation. Saccharides are prepared and then fermented using specific microorganisms.
• Extraction. The biopolymer (gum) is extracted from the fermented solution.
• Purification. The product is purified to remove any impurities.
• Drying. The gum is dried to remove residual water.

Physical Properties

Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone is a viscous liquid or slightly opaque fluid, depending on the formulation. It is insoluble in water but disperses easily in formulations containing emulsifiers or other lipid solvents. Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for use in products that do not leave the hair feeling heavy or greasy. 

Applications

• Hair Care: Used in conditioners, masks, and serums to improve combability, smooth the cuticle, and reduce frizz. It protects hair from damage caused by heat-styling tools like blow dryers and flat irons, as well as from environmental factors like humidity and pollution.

• Leave-in Products: Employed in leave-in products to provide long-lasting conditioning and protect hair throughout the day, improving softness and shine.

• Smoothing Treatments: Found in smoothing treatments to create a sleek surface and improve manageability, particularly for frizzy or damaged hair.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions:

Hair conditioning agent. A large number of ingredients with specific purposes can co-exist in a hair shampoo: cleansers, conditioners, thickeners, mattifying agents, sequestering agents, fragrances, preservatives, special additives. However, the indispensable ingredients are the cleansers and conditioners as they are necessary and sufficient for hair cleansing and manageability. The others act as commercial and non-essential auxiliaries such as: appearance, fragrance, colouring, etc. Hair conditioning agents have the task of increasing shine, manageability and volume, and reducing static electricity, especially after treatments such as colouring, ironing, waving, drying and brushing. They are, in practice, dispersing agents that may contain cationic surfactants, thickeners, emollients, polymers. The typology of hair conditioners includes: intensive conditioners, instant conditioners, thickening conditioners, drying conditioners.

Hair dyeing. It is an ingredient that adds a colouring to the hair that can be temporary, semi-permanent or permanent depending on what other ingredients are added to achieve the result. The pH for hair dyeing is generally between 9 and 10.

CAS: 237753-63-8

Cosmetic Industry. This ingredient is primarily used in hair products such as conditioners, hair masks, and leave-on products for its conditioning and anti-static properties.

Colored Hair Products. It helps protect and prolong the color lifespan, making hair shinier and less prone to fading.

Hair Styling Products. Used in serums, sprays, and mousses to provide hair with control, definition, and shine, reducing frizziness.

Shampoos and Conditioners. Contributes to softness and shine, making hair easier to comb through and reducing frizziness.

Safety

Dimethicone is a chemical compound, derived from silicone, a mixture of linear methylated siloxane polymers, a chemically inert silicone-based polymer. It is considered safe when formulated to be non-irritating in cosmetic products.

Safety in Use
Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone is considered safe for use in hair care products. No known irritant or sensitizing effects are associated with its use at recommended concentrations. It is well tolerated by most hair types, including chemically treated hair.

Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to this ingredient are extremely rare, as silicone and its derivatives are generally well tolerated by both skin and hair. However, in rare cases, individuals with highly sensitive skin may experience irritation.

Toxicity and Carcinogenicity
 It has been extensively evaluated for cosmetic use and is considered safe by major regulatory authorities.

Environmental Considerations
Silicone, including Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone, is not easily biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment. However, its low toxicity and limited bioaccumulation in biological tissues mean it poses minimal environmental risk when used properly.

Regulatory Status
Bis(C13-15 Alkoxy) PG-Amodimethicone is approved for use in cosmetics by major regulatory authorities, including the European Union and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States.