Quick answer
Petroleum-derived cosmetic ingredient whose wax-like texture functions as an emollient; Also used as a solvent and texture enhancer, where it helps ingredients mesh cohesively; Often combined with polyacrylamide and laureth-7 to create non-tacky gel formulations; Deemed a safe cosmetic ingredient in concentrations up to 75%
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Updated
Alkanes, C13-14-iso
Purpose
Emollient, solvent, and texture enhancer.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Texture Enhancer, Solvent
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SOLVENT
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Petroleum-derived cosmetic ingredient whose wax-like texture functions as an emollient
Also used as a solvent and texture enhancer, where it helps ingredients mesh cohesively
Often combined with polyacrylamide and laureth-7 to create non-tacky gel formulations
Deemed a safe cosmetic ingredient in concentrations up to 75%
Article
C13-14 isoparaffin is a petroleum-derived ingredient whose wax-like texture functions as an emollient (skin-softening lubricant), solvent and texture enhancer. It is often combined with film-forming agent polyacrylamide and emulsifier laureth-7 to create aesthetically pleasing gel formulations.
C13-14 isoparaffin shows up in various skin care products from cleansers to lotions and everything in between. You can find this ingredient in makeup and hair care, too.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed relevant data on C13-14 isoparaffin and concluded it is safe in concentrations between 0.0001%-75%, as reported in their 2013 assessment of isoparaffins used in cosmetics.
See: C11-15 Pareth-7
References