What it is
Isoparaffin is a branched (iso) saturated hydrocarbon belonging to the family of refined mineral-oil-type emollients, available in grades of differing chain length and volatility. It spreads easily, leaves a light, non-greasy feel, and can serve as a carrier or solvent for other ingredients. In sunscreens it is often used to thin the formula and improve spreadability and skin feel.
Safety & warnings
Refined cosmetic-grade isoparaffins are chemically inert and generally well tolerated, with low irritation potential. Lighter, more volatile grades evaporate and leave little residue.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; produced from petroleum-derived feedstocks and refined into branched saturated hydrocarbons.
Questions everyone asks
What does isoparaffin do in a sunscreen?
It works as a lightweight emollient and solvent, helping the product spread smoothly and leaving a light, non-greasy feel.
Is isoparaffin natural or synthetic?
It is synthetic, refined from petroleum-derived feedstocks into branched saturated hydrocarbons.