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Moumoujus

CAPRYLYL TRISILOXANE.

Valuable CAS 17955-88-3 / SKIN CONDITIONING

A high-performance, volatile silicone fluid that serves as a sophisticated emollient and delivery vehicle. It is specifically engineered to bridge the gap between silicone and organic oils, providing a weightless, silky finish without the greasiness associated with heavy lipids.

Summary

Volatile Emollient Skin Conditioning Agent Co-solubilizer Antifoaming Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by reducing the surface tension of a formula, which dramatically improves 'slip' and spreadability. It forms a breathable, non-occlusive barrier on the skin's surface that helps mitigate trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) while acting as a co-solubilizer to ensure pigments, UV filters, and hydrophobic powders are distributed with precision and uniformity.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–16%
Optimal

10%

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (2022) established a 16% concentration as the maximum safe threshold for sensitive eye-area applications, finding no evidence of sensitization.
  2. 02 Sensory panel data confirms that 1:1 blends featuring this trisiloxane provide a non-greasy after-feel and spreadability comparable to or exceeding natural emollient alternatives.
  3. 03 Acute dermal studies (2021) demonstrated an LD50 > 2000 mg/kg, confirming the ingredient is non-toxic and non-irritating even at 100% concentration.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

Caprylyl Trisiloxane is a functional texture enhancer. While it is rarely used for 'marketing claims,' concentrations below 1% are typically insufficient to provide the necessary slip and co-solubilizing benefits required for high-performance sunscreens or foundations.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 6 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Though stable across a wide range (pH 2-12) in the short term, manufacturers recommend maintaining a neutral pH of 6.0–8.0 to prevent long-term siloxane bond hydrolysis.

Synergies

  • Mineral UV filters (Zinc Oxide/Titanium Dioxide)
  • Organic oils
  • Hydrophobic pigments
  • Dimethicone polymers

Conflicts

  • Strongly acidic environments
  • Highly alkaline formulations
  • Water-only systems lacking emulsifiers

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
16%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Safety data is currently insufficient for airbrush or aerosolized products due to potential inhalation risks; however, it is fully supported for topical skincare and cosmetics.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An essential ingredient for achieving elegant, high-spreadability textures and ensuring the uniform delivery of active ingredients in oil-phase formulations.

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