Isohexadecane

Good

Texture enhancer

No known benefits

Isohexadecane at a glance

  • Versatile ingredient used as a cleansing agent, solvent, texture enhancer, and skin-conditioning agent
  • Imparts a non-greasy, lightweight, silky feel
  • Popular in products geared toward oily skin, as well as makeup removers
  • Also used in hair care to add silkiness without weighing tresses down

Isohexadecane description

Isohexadecane is a multitalented synthetic ingredient used as a cleansing agent, solvent, texture enhancer, and skin-conditioning agent. Even though it is often used to increase the richness of a formula’s texture, isohexadecane imparts a non-greasy, lightweight, silky feel on skin and is described as having a powder-like finish. Its dry-but-non-drying finish makes it popular in products geared toward oily skin. The cleansing/solvent properties of isohexadecane also make it a common choice in makeup remover formulas where it helps break down long-wear foundation, mascara, etc. It’s also used in hair care products to add silkiness without weighing hair down. Isohexadecane has been deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their assessment surveyed products containing up to a 42% concentration.

Isohexadecane references

  • MakingCosmetics.com, Accessed October 2021, ePublication
  • Colloids and Surface B: Biointerfaces, September 2020, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2018, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, January 2012, pages 2,69S-2,95S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.