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C15-19 Alkane

What C15-19 Alkane is & what it does

A renewable, light emollient with a smooth, dry finish used in place of silicones to soften skin and improve glide. It leaves no greasy residue.

What is C15-19 Alkane and what does it do in sunscreen?

C15-19 Alkane is a light, plant-derived emollient with a smooth, dry finish. In sunscreen it softens skin and improves how the product glides on, and it is often used in place of silicones because it leaves no greasy residue. It helps a formula feel weightless and silky.

Is C15-19 Alkane safe?

Yes. It is a well-tolerated, non-reactive emollient that simply conditions the skin surface. It is not flagged as an allergen in our data and is generally suitable for sensitive skin. It is a popular choice in modern, lightweight formulas.

Does C15-19 Alkane clog pores?

Generally no. C15-19 Alkane is not flagged as comedogenic in our data, and its defining trait is a light, dry-touch finish rather than a heavy occlusive feel. This makes it a common pick for fluid, fast-absorbing sunscreens aimed at oilier skin.

Is C15-19 Alkane natural or synthetic?

It is typically made from renewable plant sources such as sugarcane, so it is often marketed as a bio-based or natural-origin emollient. The result is a clean-feeling alternative to silicone and mineral oil. Chemically it is a purified hydrocarbon with a very consistent texture.

What is C15-19 Alkane on an ingredient list (INCI)?

"C15-19 Alkane" is the INCI name printed on the label, where the numbers refer to the chain length of the hydrocarbons in the blend. It usually sits among the emollients and texture agents, not the active filters. Its job is purely skin feel and spreadability.

Sunscreens with C15-19 Alkane

We rate 101 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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