Tetradecane
A light hydrocarbon emollient. It softens, gives a dry slip and helps dissolve actives. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional light emollient. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Tetradecane (INCI: Tetradecane) is a light hydrocarbon that works as an emollient. In a formula it softens skin, gives a dry slip and helps dissolve and disperse other ingredients. Place it correctly: this is a functional component, not a skincare active. Its role is to shape the product's texture and feel and to act as a carrier, not to treat wrinkles, pigmentation or redness. At that job it performs reliably and predictably. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is high, with low irritation and allergy potential. Comedogenicity is very low (1 out of 5), so most skin types, including oily, handle it well.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tetradecane safe during pregnancy?
Tetradecane is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Tetradecane for?
Tetradecane suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Tetradecane and what does it do in cosmetics?
A light hydrocarbon emollient.
Is Tetradecane comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Tetradecane?
The INCI name is Tetradecane.
See Tetradecane 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.
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