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Is

Isohexadecane

IsohexadecaneBarrier

A lightweight synthetic emollient that gives a dry, fast-spreading, non-greasy slip and helps disperse other ingredients.

What it does

Isohexadecane is a branched hydrocarbon emollient with a notably light, dry feel. It spreads quickly, leaves little residue, and helps carry and disperse pigments and other oils, which is why it appears in everything from primers and sunscreens to cleansing oils and makeup. It conditions and improves texture without the heaviness of richer oils. It is a feel ingredient, not an active.

Browse all 668 ingredients — grouped by what they do, each with whatever evidence we can cite.

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