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Dicaprylyl Ether

Ether of two molecules of caprylic alcohol — a lightweight synthetic oil with a distinct dry feel. Popular in silk primers and lightweight SPF products due to its ability to provide a clean, silky finish without silicones.

Dry emollientdry silk feelSilicone-freeSPF formulas
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Dicaprylyl Ether (1-(octyloxy)octane) — a symmetrical ether of two molecules of 1-octanol (caprylic alcohol, C8). Molecular formula: C16H34O. Distinct from dicaprylyl carbonate (a carbonic acid ether) and caprylic/capric triglyceride (triglyceride). Colorless liquid with minimal odor. Viscosity: very low (~4-6 mPa·s at 20°C) — one of the lowest among emollients. Chemically stable, does not oxidize, does not hydrolyze at pH 4–8. Source: synthetic or from coconut oil.

Silk SFFs and primers, lightweight moisturizing fluids, makeup-setting sprays, and dry oils, silicone-free formulas ("silicone-free" lines).

Key Benefits

✦
Silk-dry finish — effect without silicones
Dicaprylyl Ether gives the skin a distinct silky feel — similar to cyclomethicone or disiloxane, but without silicones. This makes it indispensable in "silicone-free" SPF formulas and primers: the formula glides on application, leaving a dry, matte finish. For oily skin — comfortable lightweight hydration without occlusion. Drier feel than caprylic/capric triglyceride.
◈
Excellent flow and spread
Due to the extremely low viscosity, dicaprylyl ether spreads evenly in a thin layer — an ideal base for lightweight products. In SPF formulas: even distribution ensures uniform coverage of filters → more predictable SPF. In makeup products: provides smooth application with a brush or sponge without streaks.
✧
Chemical stability and compatibility
The chemically stable ether bond (does not hydrolyze, does not oxidize) makes dicaprylyl ether reliable across a wide pH range and during long-term storage. Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients: does not react with pigments, UV filters, vitamins, and actives. Does not require antioxidants for stabilization (BHT/BHA) — an advantage for clean beauty formulas.

Suitable for

Oily skinSilicone-free formulationsLightweight SPF products

Main Actions

✓ Dry silky emollient✓ Thin even spread✓ Silicone-free alternative
Dicaprylyl Ether vs Dicaprylyl Carbonate

Dicaprylyl Carbonate (ether of carbonic acid with two C8) — a greasier, creamier feel, slightly higher viscosity. Dicaprylyl Ether — drier, lighter, more 'silky'. Both are popular in SPF. Carbonate — better for creams and balms, ether — better for lightweight fluids and primers. Often chosen based on the desired texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Dicaprylyl Ether do for skin?
Silk SFFs and primers, lightweight moisturizing fluids, makeup-setting sprays, and dry oils, silicone-free formulas ("silicone-free" lines).
Who should use Dicaprylyl Ether?
Dicaprylyl Ether is suitable for: Oily skin, Silicone-free formulations, Lightweight SPF products.
Are there any warnings about Dicaprylyl Ether?
Dicaprylyl Carbonate (ether of carbonic acid with two C8) — a greasier, creamier feel, slightly higher viscosity. Dicaprylyl Ether — drier, lighter, more 'silky'. Both are popular in SPF. Carbonate — better for creams and balms, ether — better for lightweight fluids and primers.

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