ISODODECANE ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a lightweight volatile solvent and emollient used to spread pigments, waxes, and film formers, especially in long-wear makeup, sunscreen, and hair products. It evaporates after application, leaving a drier feel and helping water-resistant films set.
What does ISODODECANE do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a lightweight volatile solvent and emollient used to spread pigments, waxes, and film formers, especially in long-wear makeup, sunscreen, and hair products. It evaporates after application, leaving a drier feel and helping water-resistant films set.
Is ISODODECANE clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally low in skin irritation and allergen concern, but it has friction because it is a synthetic petrochemical-derived volatile solvent. Some clean frameworks limit or exclude this type of material for sourcing and environmental-profile reasons rather than routine skin-safety concerns.
Is ISODODECANE sustainable?
This material is typically made from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons. It is volatile, water-insoluble, and not a strong fit for readily biodegradable, renewable-feedstock ingredient systems.
Is ISODODECANE COSMOS-approved?
It is not permitted under COSMOS organic or COSMOS natural standards because it is a synthetic petrochemical hydrocarbon. Its Green Chemistry fit is weak due to nonrenewable sourcing, volatility, and limited biodegradability alignment.
How does ISODODECANE work chemically?
This compound is a highly branched C12 alkane, which explains its low polarity, fast-spreading feel, and evaporation profile compared with heavier emollient oils. It is typically used across broad ranges in color cosmetics and long-wear systems, is water-insoluble, stable across normal cosmetic pH ranges, and pairs well with waxes, silicone resins, and film-forming polymers.
Last updated 2026-05-13