INCI
Cosmetic ingredient

C15-19 ALKANE

C15-19 Alkane is a mixture of alkanes, hydrocarbons made only of carbon and hydrogen, with chains containing 15 to 19 carbon atoms. The name therefore does not identify one single molecule: it covers a range of closely sized components, unlike an ingredient defined by one isolated chemical structure.

INCIC11 products
CAS number
64742-46-7;
EC number
934-956-3

C15-19 ALKANE: what it is

C15-19 Alkane is a mixture of alkanes, hydrocarbons made only of carbon and hydrogen, with chains containing 15 to 19 carbon atoms. The name therefore does not identify one single molecule: it covers a range of closely sized components, unlike an ingredient defined by one isolated chemical structure.

On an ingredient list, C15-19 Alkane describes that carbon-chain range rather than a specific feedstock. The name alone does not disclose the raw material or manufacturing route, which can vary by supplier. The technical description available for this ingredient identifies it as a mixture of alkanes within that range.

C15-19 ALKANE: what it does in cosmetics

C15-19 Alkane is used as a solvent. In practical terms, it can help dissolve or disperse compatible ingredients so the formula remains uniform before it is applied. That is a formulation role; it does not by itself support a claim to moisturise, treat, or improve a skin condition.

The technical definition of a solvent is a substance able to dissolve another substance and form a solution. For someone comparing cosmetics, the useful takeaway is that C15-19 Alkane can support the oily phase or other soluble components, but its presence alone cannot predict the finished product's feel, performance, or cosmetic benefit.

C15-19 ALKANE: conditions and care

There is a concrete regulatory condition for hydrotreated petroleum distillates associated with this ingredient: the full refining history must be known and the source substance must be shown not to be carcinogenic. This condition depends on the specific feedstock and cannot be confirmed from the ingredient list alone.

Use limits

Restrictions and conditions of use

Cosmetic restriction
II/875 Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated middle, except if the full refining history is known and it can be shown that the substance from which it is produced is not a carcinogen.
Catalogue presence

Products containing this ingredient

See which products include it and the name used in each composition.