Coconut Alkanes
Also known as Coconut Alkanes, Coconut-derived alkanes, Coconut/Palm Kernel Alkanes
“No regulator has issued a verdict on this ingredient.”
Coconut Alkanes is a mixture of straight-chain (n-alkane) hydrocarbons (predominantly C13-C15) obtained by complete reduction and hydrogenation of coconut oil fatty acids. It functions as a lightweight emollient and solvent, often marketed as a natural alternative to cyclomethicone. The CIR has not assessed Coconut Alkanes as a named INCI ingredient: it is absent from the CIR Quick Reference Table (QRT-122017revised072018), not covered by the CIR Isoparaffins report (which covers branched isoalkanes only), and not included in the 2023 CIR assessment of Cocos Nucifera-derived botanical ingredients (which covers fruit extracts, flower extracts, and liquid endosperm). No ingredient-specific PubMed studies were identified for Coconut Alkanes or its closely related INCI C13-15 Alkane. The ingredient has no CAS number assigned as a specific INCI entry (it is a mixture). No regulatory restriction or ban has been identified in any searched jurisdiction.
Lightweight, volatile emollient with low viscosity and a dry, non-greasy skin feel
Naturally derived from coconut oil fatty acids via hydrogenation — positioned as a sustainable, plant-based alternative to petroleum-derived silicones (e.g., cyclomethicone)
Saturated hydrocarbon structure confers oxidative stability; no rancidity concerns
Widely commercially available under trade names (e.g., Vegelight series)