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Moumoujus

CAPROIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 142-62-1 / CLEANSING, FRAGRANCE, PERFUMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A six-carbon medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) that functions as a high-performance penetration enhancer and antimicrobial agent. It is strategically utilized in precision skincare to optimize the delivery of active molecules while providing emollient benefits and stabilizing complex emulsions.

Summary

Penetration enhancer Antimicrobial agent Emollient Surfactant Emulsion stabilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

Caproic acid operates through a dual-action pathway: it temporarily reorganizes the lipid architecture of the stratum corneum to facilitate the transdermal passage of co-formulated actives, and it integrates into microbial lipid membranes, causing structural destabilization that inhibits bacterial and fungal growth.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–2%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated significant transdermal delivery enhancement by disrupting the lipid barrier in pharmaceutical gel models.
  2. 02 Exhibited potent bactericidal activity at concentrations as low as 0.1% (MIC 512-1024 mg/L) against common pathogens.
  3. 03 In vitro data indicates significant inhibition (75-90%) of skin epidermoid carcinoma cell viability, suggesting potential protective properties.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
0.05%

Due to its characteristic 'goat-like' odor, brands often include Caproic Acid at negligible levels (<0.05%) for marketing claims or fragrance masking. For functional penetration enhancement or antimicrobial efficacy, concentrations should ideally reach 0.1% to 1.0%.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

A stable, saturated fatty acid; however, it requires sophisticated masking agents or encapsulation to manage its strong natural scent. It is fully miscible in ethanol and oils, with a water solubility of approximately 1.1 g/100mL.

Synergies

  • Low-molecular-weight peptides
  • Antioxidants requiring deep-layer penetration
  • MCT oil-based delivery systems

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong bases
  • Reducing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
2%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Moderate

CIR Expert Panel (2019) safety is contingent on non-irritating formulation. Pure, undiluted concentrations are corrosive; cosmetic safety is limited to a 2% maximum threshold.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Moderate

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A high-utility delivery vehicle and antimicrobial stabilizer that requires expert formulation to balance efficacy against its natural odor and moderate irritancy profile.

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