What Is C12-14 Isoalkane?
C12-14 Isoalkane is a blend of lightweight, branched hydrocarbons that each contain 12 to 14 carbon atoms. It is sourced from refined petroleum fractions that are further processed to remove impurities, odor and color. The result is a clear, odorless liquid that feels silky rather than greasy.
The cosmetic industry began turning to this ingredient in the late twentieth century when formulators were searching for safer, more stable alternatives to traditional solvents like mineral oil. Advances in distillation and hydrogenation made it possible to isolate precise carbon ranges, giving rise to materials such as C12-14 Isoalkane that meet strict purity and safety standards.
Manufacturing starts with crude oil that undergoes fractional distillation to separate out a kerosene cut. This fraction is then hydrocracked and isomerized, steps that rearrange the hydrocarbon chains into branched structures. Further purification removes sulfur, nitrogen and aromatics, yielding a high grade isoalkane suited to personal care use.
You will most often see C12-14 Isoalkane in products where a fast spreading, non oily feel is desired. These include lightweight facial and body lotions, sprayable sunscreens, makeup removers, foundations, cleansing balms and some hair shine sprays. Its ability to dissolve waxes and pigments while evaporating at a moderate rate makes it a go to choice for many modern formulas.
C12-14 Isoalkane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In beauty products C12-14 Isoalkane is prized mainly for one core role.
Solvent: It dissolves oils, waxes and pigments so they can be blended smoothly into a uniform mixture. This helps creams feel lighter, prevents makeup from looking streaky and allows products like cleansing balms to melt away waterproof cosmetics without tugging the skin.
Who Can Use C12-14 Isoalkane
C12-14 Isoalkane suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry because it feels weightless, leaves no greasy film and is unlikely to clog pores. Sensitive skin often tolerates it as well since the molecule is inert and free of fragrance or colorants, though personal sensitivities can always occur.
Vegans and vegetarians can use products containing this solvent with confidence because it is sourced from petroleum, not animals, and reputable suppliers produce it without animal derived additives or by products.
No specific risks are known for pregnant or breastfeeding women when C12-14 Isoalkane is applied topically in standard cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice, so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any skincare product with a healthcare professional to be safe.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity and has no recorded interactions that would heighten sun related skin reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to C12-14 Isoalkane are uncommon, but as with any ingredient they can differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely when used in properly formulated products.
- Mild transient skin dryness
- Temporary redness or warmth in very sensitive skin
- Eye irritation if the product enters the eye area
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching, bumps or rash
If you notice any persistent irritation or allergic signs discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C12-14 Isoalkane is a lightweight branched hydrocarbon with a low tendency to remain on the skin surface or mix with skin lipids, so it is unlikely to block pores. It evaporates or spreads out quickly, leaving little residue, which keeps the comedogenic risk minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, though individual responses can vary.
No data suggest the ingredient worsens existing acne treatments, and its inert nature means it typically does not interfere with active ingredients aimed at controlling blemishes.
Summary
C12-14 Isoalkane serves chiefly as a solvent that dissolves oils, waxes and pigments so formulas stay smooth, light and easy to apply. Its branching structure lets it spread fast then evaporate partially, giving products a non-greasy slip while helping active ingredients distribute evenly.
Although the name is unfamiliar to most shoppers, formulators reach for it often in modern sunscreens, makeup removers, lightweight lotions and foundations because it offers a cleaner feel than traditional mineral oil.
Current safety reviews show it to be non-sensitising, non-irritating and free from major toxicity concerns when used in normal cosmetic concentrations. Still, skin is personal so doing a small patch test whenever you try a new product containing C12-14 Isoalkane is a smart precaution.