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Hydrogenated Polydecene

What Hydrogenated Polydecene is & what it does

A light, stable emollient that conditions skin and gives a smooth, silky slip without stickiness. It also helps spread oil-soluble ingredients evenly.

What is Hydrogenated Polydecene and what does it do in sunscreen?

Hydrogenated Polydecene is a light, stable synthetic emollient that conditions the skin and gives a smooth, silky slip without stickiness. In a sunscreen it improves how the product spreads and helps distribute oil-soluble ingredients like filters evenly across the skin. It is prized for being non-greasy and very stable, so it does not go off or oxidize easily.

Is Hydrogenated Polydecene safe?

Yes. It is a well-tolerated, highly stable emollient used widely in sunscreens and skincare. It works on the surface to improve texture and slip rather than penetrating deeply, and it is non-irritating for most people. Its chemical stability is one reason it is favored in long-wear formulas.

Does Hydrogenated Polydecene clog pores?

Generally no. It is a light emollient designed for a smooth, dry, non-greasy feel rather than a heavy occlusive oil, so it is considered low-comedogenic. It is often chosen specifically to avoid the heaviness that can clog pores. If you do break out, richer oils and butters elsewhere in the formula are the more likely culprits.

What else is Hydrogenated Polydecene called?

On the label it appears as its INCI name, Hydrogenated Polydecene. It is a hydrogenated polyolefin, sometimes described generally as a synthetic emollient or skin-conditioning oil. It is used as a lightweight, stable alternative to mineral oil or silicones.

Is Hydrogenated Polydecene natural?

No, it is synthetic. It is made in the lab from decene and then hydrogenated for stability, so it does not occur in nature. Synthetic here simply means it was engineered for a light, stable, non-greasy feel, not that it is unsafe; it is also vegan and free of animal-derived material.

Sunscreens with Hydrogenated Polydecene

We rate 197 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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