Ingredient review
C18-70 Isoparaffin
INCI: C18-70 Isoparaffin
A lightweight, non-greasy emollient that helps products spread smoothly and leaves skin feeling soft without clogging pores.
In plain English
C18-70 Isoparaffin is a synthetic oil derived from petroleum. It is a clear, odorless liquid that feels very light on the skin, unlike heavier oils. In skincare, it helps other ingredients spread evenly, makes the product feel silky, and leaves a soft, non-sticky finish. It is often used in makeup removers and sunscreens because it dissolves makeup and sunscreen ingredients well. Despite being a hydrocarbon, it is considered non-comedogenic and generally safe for most skin types.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
C18-70 Isoparaffin is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging C18-70 Isoparaffin.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A mixture of branched-chain hydrocarbons with carbon chain lengths between 18 and 70, produced through petroleum refining. It is a type of isoparaffin, which means the molecules have a branched structure that makes them very stable and lightweight.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface, forming a thin, breathable film that reduces water loss (acts as an occlusive) while also making the product feel silky and spread easily. Its low viscosity allows it to penetrate the upper layers of the stratum corneum slightly, delivering a smooth feel without greasiness.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavy oils, C18-70 Isoparaffin evaporates quickly and leaves no sticky residue, making it ideal for gel creams and lightweight lotions.
Non-comedogenic
It has a low comedogenic rating, so it is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, even for acne-prone skin.
Cons and cautions
Petroleum-derived
As a synthetic hydrocarbon from petroleum, it may not be preferred by those seeking natural or sustainable ingredients.
May not suit very dry skin
Its lightweight nature means it provides less occlusive moisture than heavier oils or butters, so very dry skin may need additional moisturizers.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin who want lightweight hydration
- Anyone looking for a non-greasy makeup remover or sunscreen base
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may prefer richer emollients like shea butter or squalane
Usage tips
Safety summary
C18-70 Isoparaffin is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has concluded that isoparaffins are safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Research notes
Studies on isoparaffins show they are well-tolerated on skin and do not cause significant irritation or allergic reactions. They are effective as emollients and solvents in cosmetic formulations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 20% depending on product type
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The CIR panel has reviewed isoparaffins and found them safe at concentrations up to 20%.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Makeup removers, Sunscreens, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a petroleum derivative, its production has a carbon footprint. However, it is not bioaccumulative and breaks down in the environment.
Good to know
- C18-70 Isoparaffin is often listed alongside other isoparaffins like Isododecane or Isohexadecane in ingredient lists.
- It is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.
Common questions
What is C18-70 Isoparaffin in beauty products?
C18-70 Isoparaffin is a synthetic oil derived from petroleum. It is a clear, odorless liquid that feels very light on the skin, unlike heavier oils. In skincare, it helps other ingredients spread evenly, makes the product feel silky, and leaves a soft, non-sticky finish. It is often used in makeup removers and sunscreens because it dissolves makeup and sunscreen ingredients well. Despite being a hydrocarbon, it is considered non-comedogenic and generally safe for most skin types.
What does C18-70 Isoparaffin do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface, forming a thin, breathable film that reduces water loss (acts as an occlusive) while also making the product feel silky and spread easily. Its low viscosity allows it to penetrate the upper layers of the stratum corneum slightly, delivering a smooth feel without greasiness.
Is C18-70 Isoparaffin safe for most people?
C18-70 Isoparaffin is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has concluded that isoparaffins are safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Who should be careful with C18-70 Isoparaffin?
Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may prefer richer emollients like shea butter or squalane
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.