Dodecane ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is used as a lightweight emollient and nonpolar solvent, helping dissolve oil-soluble materials and give formulas a dry, silky slip. It is common in color cosmetics, sunscreens, and anhydrous products where a less greasy skin feel is wanted.
What does Dodecane do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is used as a lightweight emollient and nonpolar solvent, helping dissolve oil-soluble materials and give formulas a dry, silky slip. It is common in color cosmetics, sunscreens, and anhydrous products where a less greasy skin feel is wanted.
Is Dodecane clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally low-odor, low-allergen, and well tolerated on skin. The main friction is its hydrocarbon identity, since some standards scrutinize petrochemical sourcing and residual impurity control.
Is Dodecane sustainable?
This material is commonly petroleum-derived, though renewable routes can exist depending on supplier and feedstock. Linear saturated hydrocarbons can biodegrade under suitable conditions, but sourcing and full supply-chain documentation matter for a stronger sustainability profile.
Is Dodecane COSMOS-approved?
It is not a straightforward COSMOS-organic fit when made from petrochemical feedstocks, and acceptance depends on natural origin, processing route, and supplier documentation. Its Green Chemistry profile improves when made from renewable feedstocks with good biodegradability data and low-residue manufacturing.
How does Dodecane work chemically?
The molecule is a straight-chain, saturated C12 hydrocarbon, which makes it nonpolar, water-insoluble, and resistant to oxidation compared with unsaturated oils. It is typically used in the oil phase at roughly 1 to 30%, with a boiling point around 216 °C and good compatibility with waxes, esters, silicones, pigments, and many oil-soluble actives.
Last updated 2026-05-13