Isododecane

Description

Isododecane is a lightweight, volatile hydrocarbon widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations as a solvent, carrier and sensory-enhancing ingredient. It is valued for its rapid evaporation, excellent spreadability and ability to provide a light, dry, non-greasy finish on the skin and hair.

Unlike conventional non-volatile oils, Isododecane evaporates after application, helping reduce oily residue and leaving behind other non-volatile ingredients present in the formulation. Its lightweight texture makes it particularly useful in makeup products, long-wear cosmetics, hair styling products and selected skin care formulations where quick drying and a smooth finish are desired.

Isododecane can help improve the application, glide and distribution of pigments, film-forming agents and other compatible cosmetic ingredients. It is commonly used in products designed to provide long-lasting wear, transfer resistance and a lightweight feel.

Key Benefits

1. Lightweight, Non-Greasy Finish

Isododecane spreads easily over the skin and evaporates relatively quickly, helping minimise the heavy or oily after-feel associated with non-volatile emollients.

2. Fast-Drying Properties

Its volatility allows it to evaporate after application, making it useful in formulations that require quick drying and a lightweight finish.

3. Excellent Spreadability

It helps distribute cosmetic ingredients evenly across the skin or hair, supporting smooth application and a uniform finish.

4. Improved Makeup Performance

Isododecane is commonly used in long-wear makeup products because it can help distribute pigments and compatible film-forming ingredients while contributing to transfer-resistant performance.

5. Solvent and Carrier Function

It can dissolve or carry certain compatible cosmetic ingredients, helping improve their distribution within an anhydrous formulation. Its solvent capacity depends on the particular ingredient.

6. Reduced Oily Residue

As a volatile ingredient, Isododecane evaporates after application, helping leave a lighter sensory finish when used in suitable formulations.

Applications

Isododecane is commonly used in:

• Foundations and long-wear makeup

• Concealers and complexion products

• Waterproof and transfer-resistant cosmetics

• Lipsticks and liquid lip products

• Mascara and selected eye makeup products

• Hair serums and styling products

• Certain antiperspirant and deodorant formulations

• Anhydrous skin care products

• Cosmetic products containing film-forming agents

Formulation Guidelines

Isododecane is generally used in the oil or volatile-solvent phase of compatible formulations. It is not water-soluble and is primarily suited to anhydrous products or specialised emulsions designed to accommodate volatile hydrocarbons.

A preliminary formulation screening range may be approximately 5–30%, depending on the intended application.  Certain long-wear makeup formulations may use different concentrations.

For heat-sensitive or highly volatile systems, Isododecane is typically incorporated during cool-down or at a temperature recommended by the supplier. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid unnecessary heating.

Because it evaporates readily, the finished product should be packaged in a suitably compatible, tightly sealed container to minimise evaporation and changes in formulation performance.

Solubility

Isododecane is practically insoluble in water. It is compatible with many volatile cosmetic solvents, silicones and selected oil-phase ingredients, but compatibility must be confirmed for each formulation.

Appearance

Typically a clear, colourless, low-viscosity liquid with a characteristic mild hydrocarbon odour.

Storage

Store in a tightly closed, compatible container in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. Follow the supplier's safety data sheet and local requirements for handling and storage.

Safety and Handling

Isododecane is a volatile, combustible hydrocarbon. Avoid inhaling vapours and avoid direct contact with the eyes. Use appropriate ventilation and follow the supplier's safety instructions. Its suitability must be assessed for the intended cosmetic application and finished formulation.

Important Note

Isododecane is a synthetic hydrocarbon and is not a plant-derived emollient. It is generally not suitable for brands requiring exclusively plant-derived ingredients. Confirm the exact grade, specifications and regulatory suitability with the supplier before commercial use.

Disclaimer: 

The above information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. As these are cosmetic and formulation-grade chemicals, variations in colour, consistency, strength, and performance may occur between batches due to sourcing, purity level and/or make/brand. These chemicals are supplied strictly as raw materials for use across multiple industries and may not follow any single standard. Since each industry has its own specifications and performance requirements, customers are responsible for testing samples in their formulations and confirming compatibility before purchasing larger quantities. Customers can request up to 3 different samples. Sample sizes will be decided by us (Maduras Herbals Pvt Ltd). These samples are free***, but shipping charges apply. We also recommend purchasing products in standard packaging sizes. All purchases on our website fall under B2B transactions. Laboratory test reports can be arranged on request at an additional cost.

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