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C9-16 ALKANE/CYCLOALKANE.

Valuable / CLEANSING, SOLVENT, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A versatile, high-purity hydrocarbon mixture that functions as a lightweight solvent and emollient to improve the spreadability and sensory profile of topical formulas. It excels at dissolving lipophilic substances, making it particularly effective in high-performance cleansers and stabilized sun-care products.

solvent cleansing agent emulsifier surfactant carrier

Science

This aliphatic hydrocarbon blend operates by reducing interfacial tension, allowing for the seamless solubilization of oils, waxes, and pigments. Its low surface tension ensures an even distribution of active ingredients across the skin surface, while its semi-volatile nature allows for a clean finish without disrupting the natural lipid barrier.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–70%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated efficacy as a stabilizing carrier that enhances the delivery of active molecules in sun-care and antimicrobial systems without compromising skin barrier integrity.
  2. 02 Proven to effectively remove industrial-grade lipophilic soils and greases in rinse-off formats while maintaining superior skin tolerance compared to traditional ionic surfactants.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

Because it serves primarily as a functional solvent or carrier, concentrations below 1% may indicate it is being used for marketing claims or as a minor component of a raw material blend rather than for its primary performance benefits.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 3.5 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Highly chemically inert and resistant to both oxidation and hydrolysis; however, its specific evaporation rate is determined by the ratio of C9 to C16 chains in the blend.

Synergies

  • UV Filters
  • Mineral Pigments
  • Lipophilic Actives

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • EPDM rubber packaging

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
95%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Classified as non-sensitizing and exhibits extremely low systemic toxicity; safe for use in concentrations up to 95% in specialized solvent applications.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

A highly stable and skin-tolerant solvent that bridges the gap between efficacy in cleansing and precision in active ingredient delivery.


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