C13-16 Isoalkane Best New ingredients No known benefits C13-16 Isoalkane at a glance A synthetic solvent but may also be plant-derived Used in blends meant to replace siloxane silicones Light fluid has a skin-silkening after-feel Formerly known as C13-16 isoparaffin C13-16 Isoalkane description C13-16 isoalkane is a synthetic solvent that may also be plant-derived (Paula’s Choice Skincare uses the latter, and it is not palm-derived). It can be used on its own but more often is used in blends meant to replicate the sensory and smoothing properties of siloxane-type silicones. Other benefits include helping to reduce the viscosity (thickness) of a cosmetic formula as well as improving spreadability without leaving an occlusive feel. This ingredient was formerly known as C13-16 isoparaffin. This retired name that as part of a safety assessment done in 2012, which deemed it safe in typical usage amounts between 0.4–18%. Related ingredients: C13-14 Isoalkane