What Is C13-16 Isoalkane?
C13-16 Isoalkane is a clear odorless liquid made up of branched hydrocarbons that each contain between 13 and 16 carbon atoms. It comes from petroleum that has been highly refined. During production crude oil is first distilled then the chosen fraction is hydrocracked and hydrogenated to remove impurities, giving a very pure cosmetic-grade ingredient. It appeared in cosmetics in the late 1970s as chemists looked for alternatives to heavier mineral oils and was renamed from C13-16 Isoparaffin to signal its improved purification. Today it shows up in a wide range of products such as makeup removers, cleansing balms, liquid foundations, sprays, sunscreens, lotions, deodorants and hair styling aids where a lightweight feel is important.
C13-16 Isoalkane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and makeup formulas C13-16 Isoalkane serves one main purpose that brings several benefits.
Solvent: It dissolves oils waxes and pigments so other ingredients mix evenly, helping a product spread smoothly and feel light on the skin without greasy residue. By creating a uniform blend it also improves product stability and can reduce the need for heavier emollients.
Who Can Use C13-16 Isoalkane
C13-16 Isoalkane is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including oily, combination and sensitive, because it is lightweight and non greasy. People with very dry skin may find they still need richer emollients alongside it since the ingredient itself does not provide much moisturization.
The ingredient comes from petroleum and contains no animal derived substances or by-products so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety assessments do not flag C13-16 Isoalkane as a concern for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used in normal cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before introducing new products.
C13-16 Isoalkane is not known to cause photosensitivity and does not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and free of common allergens such as proteins or preservatives, which helps limit the risk of sensitization.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of C13-16 Isoalkane can differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at the levels typically found in cosmetics.
- Mild skin irritation
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to hydrocarbons
- Transient eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness if used in very high amounts because it can dissolve some of the skin’s natural lipids
If any discomfort, redness or other negative reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. C13-16 Isoalkane has a low molecular weight compared with heavier mineral oils and evaporates or spreads thinly rather than sitting in pores, so it rarely traps dead cells or sebum that could form blemishes. It is therefore generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. The rating can edge slightly higher if a formula contains very large amounts of it and little else to balance the skin, but within normal cosmetic concentrations the clogging risk stays minimal.
Because it is non-polar and inert it does not react with sebum or oxidize on the skin, factors that further lower its comedogenic potential.
Summary
C13-16 Isoalkane is used chiefly as a solvent that dissolves oils waxes and pigments so they distribute evenly in a formula. Its branched structure lets it glide over the skin without a heavy finish which helps makeup spread smoothly boosts cleansing balms and thins out lotions or sprays. By keeping textures light it often allows brands to cut down on greasier emollients while maintaining performance.
Although it is not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or retinol it is a quiet workhorse found in many modern cleansers foundations and sunscreens where a fast spreading feel is needed. Its popularity sits in the background of product labels but formulators reach for it because it is reliable readily available and cost effective.
Current safety reviews find it non irritating non sensitizing and with a very low comedogenic rating when used at typical levels. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to run a small patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the full formula that contains C13-16 Isoalkane.