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Isohexadecane

Branched hydrocarbon C16 is the lightest and most "dry" emollient-solvent in cosmetics. Completely invisible after application, it gives the skin a feeling of "nothing there." A standard component in makeup and light sunscreen fluids for the Korean and Japanese markets.

dry touchSolventLight hydrocarbonMakeup

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Isohexadecane is a branched isoalkane C16 obtained by oligomerization of isobutene. Liquid at room temperature, very low viscosity (~3 cSt), colorless and odorless. INCI: Isohexadecane. Excellent solubility for organic UV filters, pigments, and waxy components. Key property: minimal residual film on the skin — at low concentrations, it is practically unnoticeable. Stable to oxidation (saturated hydrocarbon). Compatible with all types of cosmetic formulations.

Foundations and concealers, light SPF fluids, BB drops, lip gloss (wax solvent), makeup removers — where a "dry" solvent is needed without an oily feel.

Key Benefits

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"Dry" feel — complete disappearance after application

Isohexadecane has the lowest residual film among hydrocarbon emollients. At low concentrations (5–10%), it practically leaves no noticeable layer on the skin. This is why it is used in makeup: it dissolves pigments and waxes but does not add greasiness or a "sluggish" feel to the product. "Apply and forget" — the main advantage.

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Solvent for pigments and organic filters

Excellent solubility for: organic UV filters (DHHB, octinoxate, tinosorb S), pigments (iron oxides, ultramarine), waxes (carnauba, paraffin). In foundations: even dispersion of pigments → flawless coverage without clumps. In sunscreens: maximum concentration of filters in minimal solvent volume → effective SPF with a light texture.

✧

Stability and chemical inertness

Saturated hydrocarbon — does not oxidize, does not hydrolyze, does not engage in chemical reactions with active components of the formula. Extends the shelf life of products with unstable actives (retinol, vitamin C). Compatible with acids, bases, active peptides. One of the most stable cosmetic ingredients.

Suitable for

For oily skinFor all skin typesMakeup formulations

Main Actions

✓ Dry-touch solvent✓ Dispersion of pigments and UV filters✓ Chemical stability

Isohexadecane vs Mineral Oil vs Polydecene

Mineral oil (C12–C30) — has a greasier feel, cheaper. Polydecene/Hydrogenated Polydecene — lighter but slightly more "silky." Isohexadecane — the most "dry," with the least residual film. For premium makeup and light SPF: isohexadecane. For emollient "glow" products: polydecene. For barrier products: mineral oil (if of proper quality).

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