C13-14 isoparaffin is a mixture of petroleum-derived hydrocarbons used in skincare, makeup, and hair products. Each molecule in the mixture contains 13 or 14 carbon atoms arranged in branched chains, which gives it a lightweight, non-greasy feel compared to heavier oils. You’ll find it listed on ingredient labels for moisturizers, sunscreens, serums, and cleansers from brands like Olay, L’Oréal, and La Roche-Posay.
What It’s Made Of
Isoparaffins are a class of hydrocarbons, meaning they’re made entirely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. The “C13-14” part tells you the chain length: molecules in this mixture have either 13 or 14 carbons. The “iso” prefix means the carbon chains are branched rather than straight. Think of it like a tree trunk with small limbs sticking out, rather than a single rope.
This ingredient is derived from petroleum. It’s produced through a process called alkylation, where two smaller hydrocarbon molecules are chemically combined to form a heavier, multi-branched one. The result is then further refined (hydrotreated) to remove impurities. You may also see it described by its chemical synonyms: hydrotreated kerosene or hydrotreated light petroleum distillate. Despite the industrial-sounding names, the finished cosmetic ingredient is a clear, odorless liquid that’s been purified well beyond its crude oil origins. Isoparaffinic petroleum hydrocarbons are even approved as direct food additives in certain forms.
What It Does in Products
C13-14 isoparaffin serves two main roles in cosmetic formulations. First, it works as a solvent, helping dissolve and evenly distribute other ingredients so the product spreads smoothly on your skin. Second, it acts as an emollient, sitting on the skin’s surface to help soften and smooth its texture. Its branched molecular structure keeps it from feeling heavy or oily, which is why formulators favor it in lightweight lotions and daytime moisturizers with SPF.
Because it evaporates more readily than heavier oils, products containing C13-14 isoparaffin tend to absorb quickly without leaving a visible residue. This makes it especially popular in sunscreens and tinted moisturizers where a matte or semi-matte finish is desirable.
Where You’ll Find It
This ingredient appears across a wide range of product categories. Based on listings in the EWG Skin Deep database, it shows up in:
- Facial moisturizers and SPF products, including daily sunscreens and anti-aging lotions
- Serums and treatments, such as dark spot correctors and antioxidant serums
- Makeup, including BB creams, CC creams, and foundations
- Cleansers and masks
- Hair care products
Some specific products that contain it include Olay Complete Daily Moisturizer SPF 30, La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Serum, and L’Oréal Youth Code Dark Spot Corrector.
Is It Safe for Skin?
C13-14 isoparaffin has been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel, the independent body that evaluates the safety of cosmetic ingredients in the United States. It has a long track record of use in consumer products, and the broader category of isoparaffinic hydrocarbons is permitted even in food-contact applications.
One thing to be aware of: C13-14 isoparaffin does appear on some comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredient lists. If you’re prone to acne or breakouts, this is worth noting, particularly if the product is a leave-on formula you’re applying to your face daily. That said, comedogenic ratings are general guides, not guarantees. Whether a specific product clogs your pores depends on the full formulation, concentration, and your individual skin. Plenty of people use products containing this ingredient without issues.
How It Compares to Similar Ingredients
C13-14 isoparaffin belongs to a family of isoparaffins that vary by chain length. Shorter-chain versions like C7-8 isoparaffin are lighter and evaporate faster, making them common in spray products and quick-drying formulas. Longer chains feel heavier and more moisturizing. The C13-14 version sits in a middle range: substantial enough to condition the skin but light enough to avoid a greasy finish.
Compared to mineral oil (another petroleum-derived ingredient), isoparaffins are less occlusive and feel thinner on the skin. Compared to plant-based emollients like jojoba oil or squalane, C13-14 isoparaffin offers a more neutral, less variable texture, which makes it easier for manufacturers to produce consistent formulations batch after batch. It doesn’t oxidize or go rancid the way some plant oils can, giving products a longer shelf life.
If you’re trying to avoid petroleum-derived ingredients for personal or environmental reasons, look for plant-based alternatives like squalane (from sugarcane or olives), caprylic/capric triglyceride (from coconut), or jojoba oil, which serve similar emollient and solvent functions in formulations.