Perfluorononane

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026

Also known as: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 9-Icosafluorononane, C9F20

Synthetic fluorocarbon | Used as a solvent and to improve product texture

Addresses

Solvent, Texture Enhancer

What Is Perfluorononane?

Perfluorononane is a synthetic fluorocarbon, a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), which is used in cosmetics primarily as a solvent and to improve the texture and spreadability of a product. It is a colorless, odorless liquid that is chemically inert.

While it is used to enhance the sensory properties of a product, its classification as a PFAS raises significant concerns. The Ingredient Dictionary typically rates PFAS ingredients, such as Perfluorodecalin and Perfluorohexane, as "Poor" or "Worst" due to their potential environmental persistence and lack of direct skin benefits that outweigh the risks associated with the chemical class.

The ingredient is not known to offer any direct benefit to the skin itself, and its inclusion is purely for cosmetic formulation purposes. Given the inaccessibility of the specific page, the rating is inferred based on the pattern of other PFAS ingredients in their dictionary.

Clinical Evidence & References

Published Research

  • PubChem CID 520856 [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Perfluorononane]

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