Emollient

Glyceryl Caprylate

A mild emollient and plant-derived preservative — glyceryl caprylate simultaneously softens the skin and protects the formula from microorganisms. Popular in natural and sensitive-focused cosmetics as an alternative to traditional preservatives.

Natural preservativeEmollientantimicrobialSensitive skin

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Glyceryl Caprylate — an ester of glycerin and caprylic acid (C8, derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil). In INCI: Glyceryl Caprylate. A natural or semi-synthetic component. It is a surfactant-emollient with pronounced activity against fungi and yeasts, moderate against bacteria. Often used in conjunction with ethylhexylglycerin.

Multifunctional component in water-based and emulsion formulas: softens the skin and enhances the antimicrobial protection of the formula. Common in natural, organic, and sensitive-focused cosmetics as a preservative booster or mild preservative.

Key Benefits

✦

Gentle softening and moisturizing

As a lipophilic ester, glyceryl caprylate forms a light protective film on the skin, reduces TEWL, and provides a soft feel after application — without greasiness and stickiness.

◈

Antimicrobial activity

Effective against a wide range of fungi (Candida, Malassezia) and several bacteria. In combination with ethylhexylglycerin or 1,2-pentanediol, it provides complete preservative protection — allowing for a reduction or replacement of traditional preservatives.

✧

Good tolerance by sensitive skin

Glyceryl caprylate is not a classic preservative (parabens, phenoxyethanol) — it less frequently causes reactions in chemically sensitive individuals. Popular in products for baby and reactive skin.

Suitable for

Sensitive skinDry skinBaby skinAll skin types

Main Actions

✓ Softening✓ Antimicrobial protection✓ Preserving the formula

CategoryEmollients

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