Isobutane
What is it?
Butane, Isobutane and Propane are colorless and odorless gases. Isopentane is a liquid. In cosmetics and personal care products, these ingredients are used in the formulation of shaving cream, cleansing products, hair conditioners, and makeup.
Safety Information
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reviewed the safety of Butane, Isobutane and Propane and has placed these ingredients on the list of direct food substances affirmed as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Isopentane has been approved as an indirect food additive for use in the manufacture of foamed plastics.
The safety of Butane, Isobutane, Propane and Isopentane has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert (CIR) Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated scientific data and concluded that Butane, Isobutane, Isopentane and Propane were safe as a cosmetic ingredients under present practices of concentration and use. In 2002, the CIR Expert Panel considered available new data on these ingredients and reaffirmed the above conclusion.
The safety of Butane, Isobutane, Propane and Isopentane has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert (CIR) Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated scientific data and concluded that Butane, Isobutane, Isopentane and Propane were safe as a cosmetic ingredients under present practices of concentration and use. In 2002, the CIR Expert Panel considered available new data on these ingredients and reaffirmed the above conclusion.
Why is it used in cosmetics and personal care products?
Butane, Isobutane and Propane are compressed gases that are used as aerosol propellants. Isopentane, which can be used as an aerosol propellant, can also be used as a solvent.
Scientific facts:
Butane, Isobutane, Propane and Isopentane are volatile substances derived from petroleum and natural gas. These ingredients are used in cosmetics and personal care products as a replacements for chlorofluorocarbons, or CFC propellants, some of which have been shown to have negative effects on the environment.
