Ingredient glossary

Isohexadecane

INCI: Isohexadecane

Solid and proven

A genuinely useful ingredient with real evidence behind it, not hype.

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What it does

  • softening
  • lightweight texture

moderate evidenceFormulators use isohexadecane to provide elegant spread and a dry-touch finish with low risk of comedogenicity.

On a label: usually effective at 2-20%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • oily
  • combo
  • normal

Approach with care

  • very dry needing occlusive
  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow

Plays well with

  • silicones
  • humectants

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.