A volatile hydrocarbon used as a propellant and solvent.
What it is
Pentane is a saturated hydrocarbon with five carbon atoms, a colourless, highly volatile and flammable liquid. CosIng lists it as a propellant and solvent.
Where it is used
Found in a small number of aerosol and foaming products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
The INCI name does not show whether it is used alone or in a blend with other volatile hydrocarbons.
Functions
- Propellant
- Generating pressure in an aerosol pack, expelling contents when the valve is opened. Some liquefied propellants can act as solvents.
- Solvent
- Dissolving other components of cosmetics. Solvents are usually liquids (aqueous and nonaqueous).
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.