Pentane

Also known as: n-Pentane

INCI: Pentane | Function: Solvent | Type: Hydrocarbon Solvent

What Is Pentane?

Pentane is a short-chain aliphatic hydrocarbon (C5) used as a volatile solvent in cosmetic manufacturing and as a blowing agent for aerosol foams. It evaporates very rapidly at room temperature, leaving no residue. In cosmetics, it is primarily used as a processing solvent in extraction and as a propellant component in aerosol formulations.

Key Skin Benefits

Pros

Cons

Specifications

PropertyValue
Usage AreasFace, Body, Hair
Product TypeRinse-Off
SourceSynthetic
Natural LevelSynthetic

Safety Ratings

MetricRating
Skin Sensitivity1/5
Comedogenic Rating0/5
EWG Score3/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

RegionLeave-on %Rinse-off %Status
EU (CosIng)Processing aidProcessing aidAllowed — solvent
US (CIR/FDA)Processing aidProcessing aidAllowed
Japan (MHLW)Processing aidProcessing aidAllowed
ASEANProcessing aidProcessing aidAllowed
China (NMPA)Processing aidProcessing aidAllowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product TypeTypical %
Processing SolventTrace (removed in final product)
Aerosol Foams5–30%

References

  1. CosIng Database — Pentane. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
  2. CIR Safety Assessment — Hydrocarbon Solvents in Cosmetics. PMID: 19636072
  3. EWG Skin Deep — Pentane. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
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