What Is C22-28 Alkane?
C22-28 Alkane is a mix of long-chain hydrocarbons that each have between 22 and 28 carbon atoms. It can come from refined mineral oil, plant oils that have been fully hydrogenated or be made in a lab to meet strict purity standards. These straight-chain molecules are similar to the natural waxes our skin produces, which is one reason they work so well in beauty products.
The cosmetic world first turned to long-chain alkanes decades ago as a lighter, more stable option compared with heavier petrolatum or animal waxes. As processing methods improved, chemists learned how to separate and purify the 22- to 28-carbon fraction, giving formulas a silky feel without the greasiness of shorter mineral oils.
Manufacturers usually start with a renewable or petroleum source, distill it to collect the right carbon length, then run it through hydrogenation to remove any unwanted double bonds or color. The final material is clear, odorless and highly resistant to oxidation, which means it keeps products fresh for longer.
You will most often spot C22-28 Alkane in moisturizers, sunscreens, lip balms, foundations, creamy cleansers, hair conditioners and many solid or stick products where a smooth glide is important.
C22-28 Alkane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
C22-28 Alkane brings several practical perks to a formula, helping both the product and your skin perform their best.
- Binding: Helps powdered or loose ingredients stick together so pressed powders, sticks and balms hold their shape and do not crumble
- Emulsion stabilising: Keeps oil and water layers from separating, which means creams and lotions stay smooth and even through their shelf life
- Skin conditioning: Forms a light, breathable layer that softens rough spots and leaves skin feeling silky rather than greasy
- Skin protecting: Creates a thin barrier that helps lock in moisture and shields skin from wind or cold air, making it useful in lip care and hand creams
- Viscosity controlling: Adjusts thickness so a product is neither too runny nor too stiff, giving formulators precise control over texture and spreadability
Who Can Use C22-28 Alkane
C22-28 Alkane is considered friendly for most skin types including dry, normal, oily and combination because it sits lightly on the surface and helps reduce moisture loss without leaving a waxy feel. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well since the ingredient is chemically inert and fragrance free, though anyone highly reactive to mineral derivatives should stay alert for personal triggers.
The alkane mix itself is vegan friendly when sourced from petroleum or lab synthesis because no animal-derived material is involved. If it is produced from fully hydrogenated plant oil it also remains suitable for vegans and vegetarians. People who avoid animal ingredients can confidently use products listing C22-28 Alkane as long as the rest of the formula aligns with their ethics.
Current safety data show no reproductive toxicity, so products containing C22-28 Alkane are viewed as acceptable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified physician to be on the safe side.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also does not interfere with common actives such as retinoids or vitamin C, making it a versatile texture and barrier booster in both day and night routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of C22-28 Alkane can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential issues and they are highly unlikely to be the typical user experience. Assuming the ingredient has been used correctly by the manufacturer most people will not experience any negative effects.
- Temporary pore congestion in very acne-prone skin due to its occlusive nature
- Rare contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to mineral-based ingredients
- Greasy feel or product buildup on hair when used in leave-in conditioners for fine hair types
If you notice irritation clogged pores or any persistent discomfort stop using the product and seek guidance from a dermatologist or healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
C22-28 Alkane earns a low score because its large, straight chain molecules stay on the skin surface and are too big to slip into pores easily. Studies on comparable long chain alkanes show little to no acne flare when used at normal cosmetic levels. That said, its light occlusive film can still trap existing debris if a formula is very rich or if multiple heavy products are layered on top.
Most people prone to breakouts can use it without issues though ultra-oily or severely congested skin types may prefer lighter textures.
Formulation matters: when C22-28 Alkane appears high on an ingredient list in thick balms or stick foundations, the overall product may feel heavier than a lotion using only a small percentage.
Summary
C22-28 Alkane binds powders, stabilises emulsions, softens and shields skin, controls viscosity and lends formulas a smooth glide. It does this by forming a flexible hydrophobic film, filling gaps between pigment or wax particles and boosting the structural network that keeps oil and water phases uniform.
The ingredient sits in a sweet spot of being lighter than petrolatum yet richer than volatile silicone oils so it shows up in everything from lip balms to fluid sunscreens. While not the hottest buzzword in beauty its reliable performance keeps it in steady demand especially among brands looking for a vegan petrolatum alternative.
Safety data class it as non sensitising, non toxic and non photoreactive, making it a low risk pick for most users. Still, every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that features C22-28 Alkane just to be sure.