Hexadecene

What Hexadecene is & what it does

Hexadecene is a 16-carbon unsaturated hydrocarbon (an alpha-olefin) used in cosmetic and sunscreen formulas. It typically functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, giving products a light, spreadable feel. Synthetic hydrocarbons like this are chosen for their stability and consistent texture.

What does Hexadecene do in skincare?

Hexadecene is a hydrocarbon that works as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It gives products a light, smooth, easily spread feel and can help carry or blend other oil-based ingredients in a formula.

Is Hexadecene comedogenic?

Lightweight olefin emollients like Hexadecene are generally regarded as low on the comedogenic scale, but individual responses vary. If you are very acne-prone, monitor how a product feels on your skin, since pore-clogging depends on the full formula rather than a single ingredient.

Is Hexadecene natural or synthetic?

Hexadecene is synthetic, manufactured as a 16-carbon alpha-olefin hydrocarbon. It is chosen for its consistency and stability, which are hard to match with naturally sourced oils.

Sunscreens with Hexadecene

We rate 14 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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