Hydrogenated Didecene

Hydrogenated didecene is a saturated, non-volatile emollient/hydrocarbon used to improve slip and reduce transepidermal water loss, typically at a few percent up to higher levels in anhydrous formulas. As an inert, non-reactive lipid-like ingredient, it has a low rate of irritation in patch testing and is generally well tolerated even in sensitive skin, though very occlusive products can rarely contribute to discomfort or follicular issues in reactive individuals. Safety Notes: Hydrogenated didecene is used as a lightweight emollient/hydrocarbon oil; in many leave-on lotions, creams, and makeup it appears at low levels (~0.1–2%) primarily for slip and sensory optimization, and in rinse-off cleansers it is often around ~0.1–1% as a refatting agent. In consumer-available anhydrous/oil-rich products (lip oils/balms, cleansing oils/balms, barrier ointments, and some facial/body oils), it can be a major base emollient typically 10–30% and observed up to ~40% where it functions as a primary oil-phase component. There is no specific EU/FDA maximum limit for this cosmetic hydrocarbon ingredient; the practical upper bound is driven by product type (anhydrous vs emulsion) and desired viscosity/sensory profile.