What Is C15-23 Alkane?
C15-23 Alkane refers to a blend of straight chain hydrocarbons that each contain between 15 and 23 carbon atoms. These mid length alkanes are most often derived from naturally occurring mineral oils or plant based feedstocks that have been refined and purified. Thanks to modern fractional distillation and hydrogenation methods, manufacturers can isolate this narrow carbon range to give cosmetic formulators a predictable material with very low impurity levels.
Alkanes in this size range first showed up in personal care during the push for lighter feeling emollients in the 1990s. As brands began looking for ingredients that could thin out heavier creams without leaving a greasy film, C15-23 Alkane proved to be an effective option. Today it is produced at large scale: crude oil or renewable plant oils are distilled, the desired carbon fraction is captured then further purified through filtration and vacuum stripping. The result is a clear odorless liquid that resists oxidation and blends easily with many other cosmetic ingredients.
You will usually spot C15-23 Alkane in lightweight moisturizers, facial oils, sunscreens, color cosmetics, hair serums and cleansing balms where it helps adjust texture and spreadability. Because it has a neutral scent and good compatibility, formulators also add it to soothing masks, anti aging lotions and baby care products.
C15-23 Alkane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and makeup formulas C15-23 Alkane serves one key purpose.
As a solvent it helps dissolve oil soluble actives, pigments and UV filters so they can be evenly dispersed throughout the product. This results in a smoother texture, more uniform application and better performance of the finished formula. Its medium volatility means it spreads easily then lightly evaporates, leaving behind a soft non sticky feel that consumers appreciate.
Who Can Use C15-23 Alkane
C15-23 Alkane is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin, because it has a light non occlusive feel and a very low chance of irritation. Extremely acne prone users who react to most oils may prefer to monitor their skin when first trying products that contain it, but for most people it poses little risk of clogging pores.
The ingredient can be sourced from either petroleum or plant feedstocks. When a brand specifies that its C15-23 Alkane comes from renewable plant material, the finished product is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If the label does not clarify the origin, consumers who avoid animal by-products may want to confirm sourcing with the manufacturer.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use cosmetics containing C15-23 Alkane, as it is not known to absorb deeply into the skin or affect hormone levels. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review all personal care items with their healthcare provider to be safe.
C15-23 Alkane does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and does not interfere with sunscreen filters, so no special sun precautions are needed beyond normal daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ingredients vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when C15-23 Alkane is used in a properly formulated cosmetic product.
- Mild skin redness or warmth in people with very reactive skin
- Temporary stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare contact dermatitis associated with impurities if the ingredient has not been adequately purified
If any irritation or discomfort occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
C15-23 Alkane is a lightweight, low-viscosity hydrocarbon that spreads thinly then partly evaporates, so it does not sit in pores or create a heavy film. Studies and user reports show little tendency for it to trap dead skin cells or excess sebum, which is why it earns a near-non-comedogenic score. The small risk comes from the fact that everyone’s skin is different and very acne-prone users can react to almost any oil-soluble ingredient.
Most people, including those prone to breakouts, can use products containing C15-23 Alkane without seeing new blemishes.
If a formula combines this alkane with known pore-cloggers like heavy butters or waxes the overall product could still trigger acne, so always look at the full ingredient list.
Summary
C15-23 Alkane’s main job in cosmetics is to act as a solvent that evenly dissolves pigments, UV filters and oil-based actives. Its mid-chain length lets it glide across the skin, thin out thicker creams and leave a soft non-greasy finish once the more volatile portion flashes off.
The ingredient is fairly popular in modern lightweight creams, sunscreens and makeup sticks because it gives formulators a simple way to improve spreadability without adding fragrance or color. It is not as buzz-worthy as plant oils or silicones, yet its quiet reliability keeps it in many best-selling products.
Safety data show a very low risk of irritation or sensitization when the alkane is properly purified. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product before full-face use, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.