What Is C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane?
C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane is a mix of straight chain and ring shaped hydrocarbons that contain between 11 and 15 carbon atoms. These molecules come from highly refined portions of petroleum or natural gas liquids that have been purified to remove impurities such as sulfur and aromatics. Because of the extra filtering steps they are colorless, almost odorless and very stable.
The cosmetic industry began turning to this ingredient in the late 1990s when brands looked for lighter, non greasy alternatives to traditional mineral oil. By selecting only the 11-15 carbon range, chemists found a balance between a silky feel and fast evaporation. Today the material is produced through fractional distillation, followed by hydrogenation and filtration that leaves behind a clear, skin friendly fluid.
You will most often see C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane in lightweight facial oils, sprayable moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup setting sprays, hair serums and quick dry body lotions. Its ability to dissolve many kinds of ingredients without leaving residue makes it popular in both skin and hair products that aim for a barely-there finish.
C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main role in formulas, but that role brings several practical advantages.
Solvent: As a solvent it helps dissolve active ingredients, fragrances and film formers so they spread evenly on the skin or hair. This improves product stability, prevents clumping, speeds up drying time and leaves a smooth non tacky after-feel which many users prefer for daily wear products.
Who Can Use C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane
This lightweight solvent is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry. It feels dry on the skin and leaves little residue so even those who struggle with shine tend to tolerate it well. Sensitive or compromised skin usually does fine too because the ingredient is chemically stable and contains no fragrance or reactive groups, though reactions are always possible with any cosmetic.
C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane comes from petroleum or natural gas fractions yet no animal material is involved in its sourcing or processing. For that reason it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
No data suggest the ingredient poses specific risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used on intact skin in normal cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine.
The ingredient does not absorb UV light so it does not cause photosensitivity. It also has no known interactions with common actives like retinoids, vitamin C or acids, making it easy to layer with most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential side effects and they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in well formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation or redness in very sensitive individuals
- Transient dryness or tightness if used in high amounts without added emollients
- Eye stinging or watering if a spray mist drifts into the eyes
- Inhalation discomfort such as throat tickle when the ingredient is delivered in an aerosol and used in a poorly ventilated space
- Rare contact dermatitis in people with a specific hydrocarbon sensitivity
If any discomfort, redness or other adverse effect occurs, stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane is a light, fast-evaporating hydrocarbon with little tendency to stay on the skin or seep into pores. It lacks the heavy, waxy structure that often traps dead skin and sebum, so it rarely contributes to clogged pores in most users. Because of this low score it is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Its volatility means most of it flashes off after application, leaving minimal residue behind. That quick dry-down further reduces the chance of pore blockage. Formulas that combine it with heavier oils or waxes could change overall pore-clogging potential, so the full product composition still matters.
Summary
C11-15 Alkane/Cycloalkane is used mainly as a solvent that dissolves actives, fragrances and film formers then spreads them smoothly over skin or hair. Its short carbon chain lets it evaporate quickly, giving products a lightweight, non-greasy feel while helping them dry faster.
The ingredient enjoys steady popularity in facial oils, sprays and sunscreens where brands want a silky after-feel without mineral oil heaviness. While not as famous as silicone or plant oils it is a dependable workhorse in many modern formulations.
Overall safety data show a low risk of irritation, sensitization or systemic absorption when used in normal cosmetic concentrations. Still, skin can react unpredictably so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains it before full use.