In fifteen seconds
C9–12 Alkanes are lightweight hydrocarbon ingredients used in cosmetic formulations to provide a smooth, silky and non greasy skin feel while improving spreadability.
What it is used for
C9–12 Alkanes are a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons containing 9 to 12 carbon atoms. They are used as skin conditioning, emollient and solvent ingredients in cosmetic formulations, helping improve product application and sensory properties.
Special Populations
| Group | Our Position |
| Pregnancy | There is no known pregnancy specific concern with C9–12 alkanes in topical cosmetic use. |
| Nursing mothers | No specific concern has been identified with using C9–12 alkanes on the skin while breastfeeding. |
| Babies (under 1 year) | Based on the available information, C9–12 alkanes has no stated limits on use in skincare for babies under 1 years of age. |
| Children | There are no known specific restrictions on using C9–12 alkanes on the skin of children. |
| Cancer history | There is no known concern with using C9–12 alkanes on your skin if you have a personal or family history of cancer. |
| Women with hormonal issues (PCOS, thyroid, menopause) | There is no known concern with using C9–12 alkanes on the skin in women with PCOS, thyroid and menopause. |
Regulatory status
| Jurisdiction | Status |
| United States (CIR) | No specific data |
| European Union (SCCS) | No specific data |
| United States (FDA) | No specific data |
| ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) | No specific data |
Why it is in our formulas
C9–12 Alkanes are included in our formulations to provide a lightweight, comfortable skin feel and enhance the overall sensory experience of the product. They also contribute to the desired texture and finish of the formulation.
Environmental and Ecological Concerns
| Parameter | Status |
| Vegan | Yes. |
| Natural/Synthetic | This ingredient can come from natural sources or be made synthetically. If you’d like to know which version is in your product, check the product label or ask the brand. |
| Biodegradable | No specific biodegradability concern was identified based on currently available data. |
| Ecotoxicity | No specific ecotoxicity concern was identified based on currently available data. |
Attributes
| Attribute | Status |
| Comedogenicity | This ingredient is not known to clog pores. |
| Acne prone skin | Generally suitable for acne prone skin. |
| Sensitive skin | No specific concern for sensitive skin was identified based on currently available data. |
Conclusion: C9-12 alkane is considered safe as per the current practices of use.
Questions people ask
What are C9–12 Alkanes made of?
C9–12 Alkanes are a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons containing carbon chains ranging from 9 to 12 carbon atoms.
Are C9–12 Alkanes the same as mineral oil?
No. C9–12 Alkanes and mineral oil are different types of hydrocarbon ingredients with different compositions and properties.
Are C9–12 Alkanes derived from plants?
C9–12 Alkanes can be produced from different raw material sources, including plant derived feedstocks or synthetic processes, depending on the manufacturing method.
Are C9–12 Alkanes suitable for lightweight skincare formulations?
Yes. Their lightweight sensory profile makes them suitable for formulations where a comfortable, non heavy skin feel is desired.
Do C9–12 Alkanes contain silicones?
No. C9–12 Alkanes are hydrocarbon ingredients and are chemically different from silicone based cosmetic ingredients.
References
- COSMILE Europe. C9–12 Alkane. Ingredient Information and Cosmetic Functions.
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). PubChem. C9–12 Alkane.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). C9–12 Alkane.
Last updated: 01-Oct-2026
Disclaimer
The above information is based on ongoing toxicology research and scientific review by the CHOSEN® R&D team. We aim to update this information as new and relevant scientific evidence becomes available. If you have any inputs or suggestions regarding the information above, please email us at ingredients@chosenstore.in.