Undecane is a straight-chain hydrocarbon belonging to the alkane family. In cosmetic formulations, it is recognized primarily for its skin-conditioning and emollient functions. Depending on the commercial source and grade, it can contribute to the spreadability, lubrication and sensory characteristics of skincare and personal-care products.
Undecane contains 11 carbon atoms and 24 hydrogen atoms, giving it the molecular formula C₁₁H₂₄. It is generally a clear, colourless liquid with low water solubility. The INCI name is Undecane, and the commonly referenced CAS number is 1120-21-4.
Cosmetic-grade Undecane may be obtained from different feedstocks, including plant-derived materials or mineral-origin sources, depending on the manufacturing process. Therefore, the source, purity, intended cosmetic use and grade-specific documentation should be confirmed before commercial procurement.
Undecane should not be confused with Dodecane, Undecylenic Acid or Hydrogenated Polydecene. These materials have different chemical structures and properties and should not be treated as interchangeable ingredients.
Undecane, also known as n-undecane or hendecane, is an alkane consisting of a linear chain of 11 carbon atoms. Its chemical name is undecane, its molecular formula is C₁₁H₂₄, and its molecular weight is approximately 156.31 g/mol.
In cosmetics, Undecane is listed for skin-conditioning and emollient functions. It can help soften the skin surface and contribute lubrication and a smooth application feel. Its usefulness in a particular formulation depends on the grade, concentration and combination of ingredients.
Undecane is a hydrocarbon rather than a triglyceride oil. It does not have a conventional fatty-acid profile like sunflower seed oil, almond oil or other vegetable oils.
The physical and technical properties of pure n-undecane are well documented, but commercial cosmetic ingredients may differ in source, purity and composition. Use the supplier's current technical data sheet (TDS), certificate of analysis (COA) and safety data sheet (SDS) to confirm the identity and specifications of the actual product.
The identity and technical values above describe Undecane as a chemical substance. For commercial cosmetic use, confirm that the supplied material is the intended INCI ingredient and not a mixture of hydrocarbons or another alkane-based product.
Undecane is listed as a skin-conditioning ingredient. It can contribute to the surface feel of cosmetic products designed to maintain smooth, conditioned skin.
Undecane is also recognized for its emollient function. It can provide lubrication and help soften the skin surface, depending on the formulation and use level.
In suitable formulations, Undecane may contribute to product spreadability and application characteristics. Its actual effect should be evaluated in the finished product.
The ingredient may influence the feel of a cosmetic formulation. Sensory outcomes such as glide, residue and perceived greasiness depend on the complete ingredient system rather than Undecane alone.
Undecane may be considered for compatible formulations where a hydrocarbon ingredient with a defined chemical identity is required. Compatibility with the other ingredients must be confirmed through formulation trials.
Undecane is a relatively low-molecular-weight, straight-chain alkane. Its properties differ from those of heavier hydrocarbon emollients and polymeric materials.
Important characteristics include:
These physical values refer to pure n-undecane and should not be used as guaranteed specifications for a commercial cosmetic grade without checking the supplier's documentation.
Where the specific grade is suitable, Undecane may be evaluated in selected:
Its listed cosmetic functions are skin conditioning and emolliency. Suitability for a particular leave-on product must be established through ingredient qualification and finished-product testing.
Undecane may be considered for selected cosmetic formulations where its technical characteristics and approved use are appropriate. Formulators should confirm the intended grade, compatibility and sensory performance before including it in makeup products.
The ingredient may be evaluated for suitable personal-care applications where the formulation requires a compatible hydrocarbon ingredient. The product's source, quality, intended exposure and applicable requirements should be assessed before use.
Important application note: Undecane is also used in industrial chemical applications. Industrial-grade Undecane should not automatically be considered suitable for cosmetics. Confirm cosmetic-grade identity, quality documentation and intended-use suitability before procurement.
Confirm that the material is specifically suitable for the intended cosmetic application. Do not assume that a general industrial or analytical grade meets cosmetic quality requirements.
The appropriate concentration depends on the intended product, the material's grade and the finished formulation. Establish the use level through supplier guidance and formulation evaluation rather than assuming a universal concentration.
Undecane is insoluble in water. Water-containing formulations require an appropriate formulation strategy if the ingredient is to be incorporated, and physical stability should be tested.
Assess compatibility with the complete formulation, including emollients, oils, esters, emulsifiers, fragrances and other ingredients. Do not assume that Undecane is compatible with every oil-phase system.
Undecane's relatively low molecular weight distinguishes it from heavier hydrocarbon emollients. Evaluate its retention, evaporation behaviour, spreadability and sensory contribution under the intended processing and use conditions.
Pure Undecane is a combustible hydrocarbon, and safety information identifies hazards associated with exposure and aspiration. Review the supplier's SDS, follow appropriate handling procedures and ensure that the material is suitable for the intended cosmetic application.
Store in a tightly closed, compatible container under the conditions specified in the SDS and TDS. Keep away from ignition sources and follow applicable flammable-liquid storage precautions.
Before purchase, review the current COA, TDS and SDS. Confirm the INCI name, CAS number, source, purity, appearance, applicable impurity limits and any customer-specific requirements.
Conduct appropriate compatibility, stability, packaging and safety assessments before commercialising a formulation containing Undecane.
Undecane and Dodecane are straight-chain alkanes, but they differ in carbon-chain length.
Their molecular weights and physical properties differ. They should not be substituted for one another without confirming the intended ingredient identity and evaluating formulation performance.
Undecane and Hydrogenated Polydecene belong to the broader hydrocarbon family, but they are structurally different materials.
Their viscosity, volatility, molecular weight and formulation behaviour differ substantially. They should not be treated as interchangeable cosmetic ingredients.
Undecane is a straight-chain hydrocarbon that is listed in cosmetic ingredient references for skin-conditioning and emollient functions. Its suitability for commercial cosmetic formulations depends on the exact grade, source, purity and intended application.
Swapnroop provides product information for cosmetic manufacturers, formulators and ingredient purchasers evaluating Undecane.
Before procurement, buyers should verify the product identity, source, CAS number, quality requirements, handling conditions and batch documentation. Industrial-grade material should not be substituted for cosmetic-grade material without appropriate qualification.
Undecane is a straight-chain alkane containing 11 carbon atoms. In cosmetics, it is listed for skin-conditioning and emollient functions.
The INCI name is Undecane.
The CAS number is 1120-21-4.
The commonly listed EC number is 214-300-6.
The molecular formula is C₁₁H₂₄.
The molecular weight is approximately 156.31 g/mol.
Cosmetic ingredient references list Undecane for skin conditioning and emollient functions. The applications of a specific commercial grade should be confirmed with the supplier.
No. Undecane is insoluble in water.
No. Undecane is a hydrocarbon, not a triglyceride vegetable oil. Commercial source may vary depending on the manufacturing process.
No. Undecane contains 11 carbon atoms, while Dodecane contains 12 carbon atoms. They have different molecular formulas and physical properties.
Not automatically. The material must be qualified for the intended cosmetic application, with appropriate identity, purity, safety documentation and applicable quality controls.
Review the material identity, purity, appearance, relevant physical properties, source, storage conditions and applicable acceptance limits using the current COA, TDS and SDS.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | colourless liquid |