What it is
Tetrafluoropropene is a hydrofluoroolefin gas used to pressurize aerosol cans and dispense the product as a spray or foam. It serves purely a delivery function, helping push the formula out of the container and contributing to the texture of mousse and spray products. It does not remain on the skin in any meaningful amount and has no skincare activity of its own.
Safety & warnings
As a volatile propellant, tetrafluoropropene flashes off during application and is not intended to stay on the skin. As with all aerosols, products should be used in a ventilated area and inhalation of the spray mist should be avoided.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; it is an industrially manufactured fluorinated compound.
Questions everyone asks
Why is tetrafluoropropene in spray sunscreens?
It is a propellant that pressurizes the can and helps dispense the product as a fine spray or foam; it is not an active skincare ingredient.
Does tetrafluoropropene stay on the skin?
No. It is a volatile gas that evaporates almost immediately after the product is dispensed.