Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE/CAPRATE.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Glyceryl Caprylate/Caprate is a multifunctional monoester and diester blend of glycerin and caprylic/capric acids. It functions primarily as an emulsifier, a potent antimicrobial agent, and a skin-conditioning emollient, enhancing both formulation stability and skin health.

Summary

Emollient Emulsifying Co-emulsifier Antimicrobial Preservative booster Penetration enhancer Skin conditioning

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions by reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible phases. Its significant antimicrobial efficacy stems from its ability to disrupt microbial cell membranes, thereby inhibiting the growth of a wide spectrum of bacteria and fungi, including common skin pathogens like *Staphylococcus aureus* and *Malassezia* yeasts. Furthermore, it acts as a penetration enhancer by temporarily modulating the lipid bilayer structures of the stratum corneum, facilitating improved transdermal delivery of other active substances. As an emollient, it softens the skin and aids in maintaining optimal moisture levels, simultaneously improving product texture and spreadability.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.3–5%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Exhibits significant antimicrobial efficacy and acts as a potent preservative booster.
  2. 02 Demonstrates antimicrobial activity and refatting properties, specifically boosting the performance of preservation systems at concentrations of 1-2%.
  3. 03 Proven safe for topical application and well tolerated by the skin across this concentration range.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

For optimal performance, particularly in aqueous formulations, a pH range of 4.5 to 7.0 is recommended. It maintains stability and remains non-reactive under typical conditions of use, storage, and transport.

Synergies

  • Boosts performance of preservation systems
  • Enhances penetration of hydrophilic substances

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents (incompatible)
  • Strong alkalies (potential to react)
  • Impacts emulsion stability (requires careful evaluation in emulsion systems)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed Glyceryl Caprylate/Caprate safe for cosmetic use at current concentrations and practices. It carries a low potential for irritation and sensitization and is also recognized as safe (GRAS) for food applications. However, direct contact with ocular tissues or eye mucosa may induce sensitization, leading to redness and irritation, thus a maximum concentration of 0.3% is advised for products intended for the eye area.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

This versatile ingredient significantly enhances formulation stability and preservation while offering direct skin benefits, making it a highly valuable component for a wide range of precision skincare applications.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…