Plant-derived emollient made from coconut oil. Substitutes silicones and mineral oil – gives a dry, slippery feel without a film. Often near the top of INCI lists in organic creams and foundations. Non-comedogenic.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
As a functional emollient, Coconut Alkanes works via a physical mechanism – it fills gaps between corneocytes and reduces TEWL. Safety profile confirmed by CIR. No standalone cosmetic effects beyond softening.
Coconut Alkanes (Cocoalkanes) is a plant emollient, a mix of saturated C13-C15 hydrocarbons from coconut oil. Light, non-occlusive texture with a dry, silky feel. Marketed as a "natural alternative to silicones" (cyclomethicone, cyclopentasiloxane) and mineral oil. Where applied. Light creams and serums, fluids, makeup primers, BB and CC creams, foundations, hair products (shine without weighing down). Concentration 1-50%. In Spain – Mádara, Freshly Cosmetics, Mantra Naturals, RYE Madrid, La Mer Skincare. Mechanism. Spreads in a thin film, gives a "velvet" feel without oily residue. Non-comedogenic. Helps disperse pigments and UV filters in decorative and sun products. Evidence base. Functional emollient. No direct clinical efficacy – sensory and formulation role. Per Ecocert (2017) data – replaces cyclomethicone in eco formulas, sensory comparable. Volatility controversy vs cyclomethicone. Cyclomethicone evaporates from skin in 5-15 minutes – gives a "dry" effect. Coconut alkanes are less volatile – stay on the skin longer, which some brands count as a plus (longer hydration), others as a minus (heavier sensory profile). Safety. CIR has not issued a dedicated review, but C13-C15 hydrocarbons are SCCS-recognized as safe. Biodegradable (unlike cyclomethicone). Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Allergic reactions extremely rare. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage on any area, including breast and nipples during breastfeeding. Suitable for. Universal. Especially good in oily-combination skin formulas, decorative cosmetics, silicone-free "clean" formulas.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Coconut Alkanes is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Coconut Alkanes suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Plant-derived emollient made from coconut oil.
The INCI name is Coconut Alkanes. It may also appear as: Coco-Alkanes, Кокосовые алканы.
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