C13-16 Isoalkane
A light solvent and emollient. It gives a dry slip and helps spread the product. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
C13-16 Isoalkane is a light synthetic emollient, a blend of branched short-chain hydrocarbons. In a formula it works as a solvent and slip agent: it spreads the product evenly, gives a dry silky feel and either evaporates or melts away without a greasy residue. You find it in makeup bases, facial fluids and makeup removers. This is a functional ingredient, not a treatment active. It handles texture and sensory feel, not biological benefit for the skin. If you want hydration or anti-aging action, this ingredient is not where you will find it; its job is the use experience. With topical use it has no systemic relevance, so you can use it during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is very good. Irritation and allergy potential are both low, and it suits sensitive skin. As a light emollient it rarely feels heavy or overly occlusive.
Frequently asked questions
Is C13-16 Isoalkane safe during pregnancy?
C13-16 Isoalkane is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is C13-16 Isoalkane for?
C13-16 Isoalkane suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is C13-16 Isoalkane and what does it do in cosmetics?
A light solvent and emollient.
What's the INCI name for C13-16 Isoalkane?
The INCI name is C13-16 Isoalkane.
See C13-16 Isoalkane in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
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