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Isododecane

Isododecane suppliers and sourcing guide

Isododecane is a branched C12 hydrocarbon, mostly 2,2,4,6,6-pentamethylheptane. It is made by joining three isobutylene molecules (from petroleum refining or, in some grades, renewable sources), then hydrogenating and distilling the product. It is a clear, colorless, nearly odorless liquid that evaporates from skin. Brands use it as a volatile carrier in long-wear lip colors, mascaras and foundations, and as a solvent for film-forming silicone resins.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
2,2,4,6,6-Pentamethylheptane · C12 isoparaffin · CAS 31807-55-3
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of isododecane

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Cosmetic grade

    High-purity isododecane with low aromatic and sulfur content.

  • Bio-based isododecane

    Made from isobutylene produced by fermentation rather than petroleum; offered by a small number of suppliers.

  • Pre-blends with resins or elastomers

    Isododecane sold with trimethylsiloxysilicate, silicone elastomers or other film formers; each component is declared separately.

  • Isohexadecane

    A heavier C16 isoparaffin that evaporates more slowly; a separate ingredient.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Composition by GC
Purity and isomer profile by gas chromatography.
Aromatics and sulfur
Aromatic content, including benzene, by GC or UV, and sulfur, against the supplier's limits.
Distillation range
Boiling range, which sets how fast it evaporates in use.
Density and refractive index
Physical constants checked against the specification.
Color and odor
Saybolt color and a check for residual odor.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Isododecane is flammable, so store it in closed, grounded containers in a flammable-liquids area away from heat and ignition sources. Keep containers tightly closed to limit evaporation. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification; it is chemically stable in normal storage.

Lots and expiry dates

Lots are usually consistent; record the GC purity and aromatics results for each lot. Note the feedstock (petroleum or bio-based) on the specification if the product makes claims that depend on it.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

  • Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists isododecane (CAS 31807-55-3) with the non-medicinal purposes emollient, fragrance ingredient and solvent, for topical use only.

    Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Isododecane suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking isododecane suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of isododecane can brands buy?

Common forms include cosmetic grade, bio-based isododecane, pre-blends with resins or elastomers and isohexadecane. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for isododecane include?

Expect composition by GC, aromatics and sulfur, distillation range, density and refractive index and color and odor, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should isododecane be stored?

Isododecane is flammable, so store it in closed, grounded containers in a flammable-liquids area away from heat and ignition sources. Keep containers tightly closed to limit evaporation. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification; it is chemically stable in normal storage.

What is the regulatory status of isododecane?

Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists isododecane (CAS 31807-55-3) with the non-medicinal purposes emollient, fragrance ingredient and solvent, for topical use only.

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