Isododecane
Volatile branched hydrocarbon with quick evaporation. Backbone of long-wear lipsticks, primers and waterproof mascara: leaves pigment on skin without stickiness after application.
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, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Isododecane is a volatile branched hydrocarbon with 12 carbon atoms. Clear oily odorless liquid, evaporates quickly from skin (boiling point 180°C, high volatility). Where applied. Long-wear lipsticks and lip tints, waterproof mascara, primers, BB creams, makeup removers (5-50%). After application it evaporates and leaves only pigment or active substances on skin without stickiness – basis of long-wear cosmetics. In Spain in Maybelline SuperStay (distributed via Druni, El Corte Inglés), KIKO Milano, Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk. Safety. CIR rated isododecane safe at current cosmetic concentrations (2012, re-evaluated 2018). EU SCCS has set no restrictions. Irritation and sensitization are rare. Not comedogenic. Volatility means minimal occlusion – does not block skin breathing. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Suitable for all skin types. May feel slightly tight on very dry skin – combine with emollients.
Frequently asked questions
Is Isododecane safe during pregnancy?
Isododecane is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Isododecane for?
Isododecane suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Isododecane and what does it do in cosmetics?
Volatile branched hydrocarbon with quick evaporation.
What's the INCI name for Isododecane?
The INCI name is Isododecane.
See Isododecane 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
Other functional ingredients
Isoeugenyl Acetate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Isopentane, Isopentyldiol, Phenylpropanol, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate, CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens)
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