Isopentane
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 2-Methylbutane, 78-78-4, Isoamylhydride, Butane, Iso-Pentane, 1, 2-Trimethylethane, Dimethylethylmethane, Ethyldimethylmethane, Methylbutane
Synthetic
Solvent
Not Clean
Isopentane is a hydrocarbon and one of three isomers of pentane. Pentanes are components of some fuels, such as gasoline, and are also used as specialty solvents in the laboratory. (L1287)
Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 73 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C5H12
Mol. Weight
72.15
CAS #
78-78-4
Form
Powder
State
Watery colorless liquid with a gasoline-like odor. Floats on water. Flammable, irritating vapor is produced. Boiling point is 82 °F. (USCG, 1999)
Functions
Propellant
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Viscosity Controlling
Dispenses Product
Dissolves Ingredients
Controls Viscosity
Propels product from container
Dissolves other ingredients
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A synthetic hydrocarbon solvent developed in the 20th century for cosmetic formulations. Used for its volatile properties to improve product spreadability and quick-drying characteristics.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR