What it is
Isohexadecane is a synthetic, branched, saturated hydrocarbon with sixteen carbons (an isoparaffin) that serves as both an emollient and a solvent. Its branched structure gives it low viscosity and high spreadability, producing a light, velvety, dry skin feel rather than a heavy, greasy one. As a solvent it readily dissolves oils, waxes, and other oily ingredients, which makes it useful in cleansing oils and makeup removers as well as in foundations, primers, and sunscreens. It is commonly paired with silicones to add slip and an elegant glide.
Safety & warnings
As a purified, saturated, branched hydrocarbon it is chemically inert and generally considered non-irritating and well tolerated; ingredient references describe it as a gentle emollient with no specific sensitization warnings. Its light, dry finish makes it popular in formulas aimed at people who dislike heavier oils.
Origin & sourcing
It is a synthetic ingredient produced from petroleum feedstocks. It is made by oligomerizing small hydrocarbon building blocks (such as isobutylene fractions) and then hydrogenating the product to yield a saturated, branched, butadiene-free isoparaffin.
Questions everyone asks
Does isohexadecane feel greasy?
No. It is prized for a light, velvety, dry skin feel and spreads easily without a heavy or greasy finish.
Is it natural or synthetic?
It is synthetic, a branched hydrocarbon (isoparaffin) made from petroleum feedstocks and then hydrogenated.
Why is it used in cleansing products?
As a solvent it dissolves oils, waxes, and makeup, so it helps lift away oily residue and sunscreen.