Caprylyl Glycol

Rating: GOOD

 

Caprylyl Glycol at a Glance

• Skin and hair conditioning agent

• Can be synthetic or naturally derived

• Has formula preservation properties

• Ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Caprylyl Glycol Description

Caprylyl glycol is a skin and hair conditioning agent that may be plant-derived (from coconut, for example) or synthetic. It is a humectant, meaning it attracts and binds water to skin.

Studies have also found that caprylyl glycol has some antibacterial properties, and that it can help boost the preservative blend used in some leave-on skin care products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found caprylyl glycol safe as used in cosmetics in amounts between 0.00003%–5%. Toxicologic testing did not reveal caprylyl glycol to be a skin or eye irritant in amounts commonly used in cosmetics.