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Moumoujus

C12-13 ALKANE/CYCLOALKANE.

Valuable / SOLVENT

A lightweight hydrocarbon emollient that serves as an environmentally-friendly alternative to volatile silicones like cyclopentasiloxane. This chemically inert ingredient delivers silky spreadability and a non-greasy finish while creating a protective barrier to minimize water loss. Its stable molecular structure makes it highly compatible across diverse formulations and pH ranges.

Summary

emollient solvent texture enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

Creates a thin occlusive layer on the stratum corneum that prevents transepidermal water loss while functioning as a non-polar solvent to improve texture and spreadability of pigments and UV filters without leaving residue

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 10–50%
Optimal

25%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated non-irritating and non-sensitizing properties at 100% concentration in human repeat insult patch testing
  2. 02 Provided equivalent sensory performance to cyclopentasiloxane at 10-50% concentrations in manufacturer trials

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

As a functional solvent and emollient typically used at meaningful concentrations (10-50%), dusting is not economically viable or technically beneficial

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Exceptionally stable across pH 2-12 due to chemically inert hydrocarbon structure with no hydrolyzable groups and high oxidation resistance

Synergies

  • UV filters
  • Pigments
  • Other oil-soluble ingredients

Conflicts

  • Water-based systems without emulsification
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
50%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

CIR Expert Panel concluded safety for alkanes and cycloalkanes in this carbon range at current usage levels

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A versatile, well-tolerated silicone alternative that delivers comparable performance with superior environmental profile.

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References

Sources