Isoparaffin

Isoparaffin refers to highly refined, branched hydrocarbons sourced from mineral oil and used in cosmetics. It's chosen to provide a lightweight emollient base, dilute oils, decrease greasiness, and improve spread in creams, balms, and sprays.
Like this ingredient?

Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A refined mineral-oil derivative that softens skin without heaviness.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Hydration
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

Low

Skin Benefits

Provides a cushioned, soft feel and helps limit water loss by forming a breathable layer on the skin. Contributes to a non-greasy finish that feels comfortable throughout the day.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in body lotions, ointment-style balms, stick formats, and aerosol dry-oil sprays to thin heavier oils and improve glide during application.

Comedogenic Rating

Isoparaffin has a comedogenic rating of 1. It has a very low likelihood of clogging pores.

Safety

Typically non-sensitizing and low irritation due to its inert nature. Very occlusive formulas can feel heavy on some acne-prone skin, so patch testing is sensible. No common regulatory restrictions apply.

Is Isoparaffin a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good because it provides a smooth, non-greasy emollient base that helps reduce transepidermal water loss and improves spread, though it delivers limited active skin improvement beyond that, which is why the rating stays functional rather than higher.

Products with Isoparaffin

Related Ingredients