What it is
C13-14 Isoparaffin is a mixture of branched-chain (iso) hydrocarbons in the thirteen-to-fourteen carbon range, refined to be light and largely odorless. It functions as a fast-spreading emollient and solvent and is a common component of liquid polymer thickener systems used to build viscosity in lotions and gels. In sunscreens it contributes a light skin feel and can aid the even spread of the product.
Safety & warnings
C13-14 Isoparaffin is considered a low-irritation, low-sensitization ingredient and is not a recognized fragrance allergen. Highly refined isoparaffins of this type are not generally regarded as significantly comedogenic at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, manufactured from petroleum-derived feedstocks and purified into a defined isoparaffin fraction.
Questions everyone asks
What is C13-14 isoparaffin used for?
It is a light synthetic hydrocarbon that acts as an emollient and solvent and is often paired with polymers to thicken lotions and gels.
Is it derived from petroleum?
Yes, it is a synthetic isoparaffin refined from petroleum feedstocks into a defined, purified fraction.