What it is
Hexadecane is a sixteen-carbon saturated hydrocarbon that is liquid at room temperature and chemically inert. In cosmetics and sunscreens it functions as a light emollient and as a solvent or carrier that can help spread other ingredients and improve the feel of the formula. Being a nonpolar oil, it leaves a smooth, conditioning film on the skin surface.
Safety & warnings
Hexadecane is chemically stable and generally regarded as low-irritation for topical use. As a nonpolar hydrocarbon oil it is occlusive, so individuals prone to congestion may wish to note its emollient nature, though it is not a fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Typically derived from petroleum fractions, though it can also be produced synthetically; it is a single, well-defined alkane rather than a mixture.
Questions everyone asks
What does hexadecane do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a light emollient and solvent, helping the product spread smoothly and conditioning the skin surface.
Is hexadecane the same as cetane?
Yes, cetane is another common name for n-hexadecane, the straight-chain sixteen-carbon alkane.