Is isohexadecane a silicone?

No. Isohexadecane is a hydrocarbon derived from mineral oil. It's used similarly to silicones as a light emollient but has a different chemical structure.

It functions as a texture enhancer and spreads evenly on skin, creating a light, non-greasy feel in products.

Published cosmetic reviews do not identify safety concerns with isohexadecane at typical use levels.

emollient · solvent

Isohexadecane

Generally safe·Strong evidence

This branched hydrocarbon is one of the isoparaffins the CIR Expert Panel reviewed and found safe as used in cosmetics, including as an emollient in leave-on face creams. It is generally considered non-comedogenic and used mainly to give a lightweight, non-greasy skin feel.

Questions

Is isohexadecane a silicone?: No. Isohexadecane is a hydrocarbon derived from mineral oil. It's used similarly to silicones as a light emollient but has a different chemical structure.
What does it do?: It functions as a texture enhancer and spreads evenly on skin, creating a light, non-greasy feel in products.
Is it safe?: Published cosmetic reviews do not identify safety concerns with isohexadecane at typical use levels.

Products with Isohexadecane

References

CIR Ingredient Page: Isohexadecane ↗

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.