A mixture of liquid hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum distillation. In cosmetics, used primarily as a solvent in hair sprays, styling products, and some cleansing formulations where quick evaporation is desired. Functions as a volatile carrier that dissolves other ingredients and then evaporates. The safety depends heavily on the distillation range and purification — cosmetic-grade petroleum distillates must be free of harmful aromatic hydrocarbons.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Effective solvent — dissolves and delivers other cosmetic ingredients
+ Quick evaporation — leaves no residue after drying
+ Cleansing — helps remove heavy oils and wax-based products
+ Compatibility — works with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients
Pros
+ Excellent solvent properties for formulation
+ Rapid evaporation for quick-dry products
+ Effective at removing heavy styling product buildup
+ Well-characterized manufacturing and purification
Cons
− Petroleum-derived — not natural or renewable
− Skin irritation and defatting at high concentrations
− Inhalation risk — requires proper ventilation in manufacturing