C18-24 Isoalkane is a synthetic, branched-chain hydrocarbon mixture functioning as a lightweight emollient and solvent in cosmetics. It provides a silicone-like sensory profile with fast spreading, a dry-powdery after-feel, excellent slip, and non-greasy texture. This clear, colorless, low-viscosity liquid is a popular silicone-free alternative (e.g., replacing cyclopentasiloxane or isohexadecane) in clean beauty and natural-leaning formulations. It is commonly used in facial moisturizers, sunscreens, primers, foundations, hair care, deodorants, and makeup removers for enhanced spreadability, reduced tackiness, and luxurious skin feel.
Products with C18-24 ISOALKANE
With samples available
Shell Silk Alkane G6
by Shell Lubricants
- Recently launched
- Sustainable option
- Support available
What is C18-24 ISOALKANE used for?
- Emollient / Skin conditioning: Softens skin with a light, velvety finish. Frequently used in creams, lotions, serums, and sunscreens for non-oily hydration and smooth application.
- Solvent & dispersant: Dissolves and disperses lipophilic actives, UV filters, pigments, and fragrances evenly. Ideal in color cosmetics, tinted products, and protective formulations.
- Texture enhancer: Reduces greasiness, improves glide, and provides a dry, powdery touch. Common in primers, deodorants, and hair products for elegant sensorial properties.
Origin
C18-24 Isoalkane is produced synthetically through controlled oligomerization or hydrotreatment of hydrocarbon fractions, yielding branched isoalkanes in the C18-C24 range. Modern grades emphasize high purity, ready biodegradability, and sustainable sourcing (often from renewable feedstocks or low-impact processes). It is designed as a vegan-verified, silicone-free alternative to volatile silicones and polydecenes.
What does C18-24 ISOALKANE do in a formulation?
SOLVENT|
EMOLLIENT|
SKIN CONDITIONINGSafety Profile
C18-24 Isoalkane is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1) and minimal concerns for irritation, sensitization, or toxicity. It is non-comedogenic, well-tolerated across skin types (including sensitive), and poses low risk at typical concentrations (up to 20-30%). As a hydrocarbon mixture, it is inert with low absorption. Related isoparaffins have been assessed as safe when formulated to be non-irritating. Approved by EU COSING for solvent function in rinse-off and leave-on products.
C18-24 ISOALKANE alternatives
C18-24 ISOALKANE technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | ~250-300°C (Depending on exact isomer distribution) |
| Melting Point | < -20°C |
| pH | Neutral |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in oils, esters, and silicones |
| Viscosity | Very low |
Formulations with C18-24 ISOALKANE
No data available
By Application
No data available