C13-15 ALKANE
C13-15 Alkane is a mixture of alkanes, hydrocarbons made only of carbon and hydrogen, with chains containing 13 to 15 carbon atoms. Because it is a mixture, it is not one single molecule: it groups components of similar size and oily behaviour rather than having one individual structure, as a specific acid or alcohol would.
C13-15 ALKANE: what it is
C13-15 Alkane is a mixture of alkanes, hydrocarbons made only of carbon and hydrogen, with chains containing 13 to 15 carbon atoms. Because it is a mixture, it is not one single molecule: it groups components of similar size and oily behaviour rather than having one individual structure, as a specific acid or alcohol would.
The name indicates the approximate length of those chains, not a plant, vegetable oil or botanical part. In this identification, the raw-material link is to hydrotreated middle petroleum distillates; the exact origin of a particular batch cannot be determined from an ingredient list. That distinguishes C13-15 Alkane from oils and waxes named after a plant or animal raw material.
C13-15 ALKANE: what it does in cosmetics
C13-15 Alkane is used as a solvent. In everyday terms, it helps dissolve or keep evenly distributed ingredients that are compatible with the oil phase of a cosmetic, allowing the preparation to remain uniform when it is applied. It is not a treatment active: its presence chiefly relates to how the product carries other components.
In a serum, sunscreen or makeup product, this kind of hydrocarbon can make up part of the liquid phase that carries oil-soluble ingredients and helps the product spread. Its name on a label does not by itself establish moisturising, anti-acne, brightening or wrinkle effects; such outcomes would depend on specific ingredients and the product in which they are used.
C13-15 ALKANE: conditions and care
The European condition linked to this mixture requires the full refining history to be known and the source substance to be shown not to be carcinogenic. That verification is required for use covered by the regulatory entry.
Restrictions and conditions of use
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
