Skip to content

Emollient

OCTADECANE

CAS 593-45-3
88

Safety score · 0–100

Good

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A long-chain saturated hydrocarbon (C18 alkane) used as a chemically inert emollient. Very low irritation and no reactive chemistry at cosmetic purity.

Octadecane (n-C18H38, CAS 593-45-3) is a saturated straight-chain alkane used as an emollient and skin-feel modifier in cosmetic formulations. Saturated hydrocarbons of this chain length are chemically inert on skin — no reactive functional groups, no oxidation susceptibility comparable to unsaturated hydrocarbons, and very low irritation. Cosmetic-grade material should meet purity specifications that minimize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) residues, which is the main quality-control consideration for petroleum-derived hydrocarbons. Not a sensitizer, not a classified carcinogen at cosmetic purity. Mainly environmental concerns relate to poor biodegradability.

Function

SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SKIN CONDITIONING, SOLVENT, PERFUMING

Skin benefits

  • Non-comedogenic emollient
  • Skin-feel modifier
  • Inert saturated hydrocarbon

Known concerns

  • Cosmetic-grade purity critical
  • Poor biodegradability

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related emollients

88
ACACIA DECURRENS/JOJOBA/SUNFLOWER SEED WAX POLYGLYCERYL-3 ESTERS
Emollient
 88
ADANSONIA GRANDIDIERI SEED OIL
Emollient
 88
AMARANTHUS SPINOSUS SEED OIL
Emollient
 88
ARACHIDYL ALCOHOL
Emollient
 88
ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL
Emollient
 88
ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL/HYDROGENATED ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL ESTERS
Emollient
 88
ASTROCARYUM TUCUMA SEED OIL
Emollient
 88
AVENA SATIVA KERNEL OIL
Emollient

Check your shelf

Find OCTADECANE in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains OCTADECANE and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.