Ingredient · Updated
Caprylyl Glycol
Found in 24 productsSee all
W3LL People Bio Brightener Priming Serum 
W3LL People Expressionist Lengthening Mascara 
Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen 
W3LL People Fresh Lines Liquid Eyeliner 
W3LL People Fresh Dew Snow Mushroom Gel-Cream Moisturizer 
Monika Blunder Beauty Architect Eyes Buildable Mascara, Black 
Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + Concealer 
The Honest Company Plant-Based Baby Wipes made with over 99% Water - Terrazzo - 36ct What is Caprylyl Glycol?
Caprylyl Glycol is a synthetic compound derived from caprylic acid, which is a saturated fatty acid found naturally in coconut and palm oils. It is a colorless liquid commonly used in the cosmetic and skincare industry.
This ingredient serves as a humectant, which means it helps to retain moisture in the skin, and as a preservative, preventing the growth of bacteria and yeast in products. The health evidence does not show significant risks associated with its use in cosmetics, although individual sensitivities may vary.
When you see Caprylyl Glycol on a label, it is primarily included for its ability to enhance the effectiveness and shelf life of the product, without contributing to significant adverse effects at the typical usage levels.
Commonly found in: Skin Care, Sunscreen, Makeup, Hand Sanitizer
Benefits
- Acts as an effective humectant to help retain skin moisture.
- Serves as a mild preservative, reducing the need for harsher chemicals.
Caprylyl Glycol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for its intended uses in cosmetics by the FDA.
Research indicates Caprylyl Glycol is effective at low concentrations in preserving cosmetic formulations without significant risks.
Caprylyl Glycol is synthetic and not derived from animals, making it vegan-friendly.
Sources: Safety Assessment of Caprylyl Glycol
Scout's take
Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and skin conditioning agent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to retain moisture and improve the texture of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen · echoed in 2 other analysesThere are no significant risks associated with caprylyl glycol in cosmetic products.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50 · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are no significant risks associated with this ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
from the analysis of Honest The Honest Company Flushable Wipes Plant-Based 126 Count Gilded WingsThere is a low risk of skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
from the analysis of Supergoop! Unseen Clear & Invisible Face Sunscreen - SPF 50There are minimal risks, though it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut ScentThe case for
Enhances skin hydration and product preservation.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + Concealer · echoed in 1 other analysisIt provides moisturizing benefits and helps to improve the texture of the product.
from the analysis of The Honest Company Plant-Based Baby Wipes made with over 99% Water - Terrazzo - 36ctIt helps in moisturizing the skin and enhancing the overall feel of the product.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50It provides moisturizing benefits and helps to keep the skin soft and smooth.
from the analysis of Honest The Honest Company Flushable Wipes Plant-Based 126 Count Gilded WingsIt provides moisturizing benefits and helps to preserve the product.
from the analysis of Supergoop! Unseen Clear & Invisible Face Sunscreen - SPF 50More from Scout's analyses
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of W3LL People Bio Brightener Priming SerumSynthetic preservative-booster and skin-conditioner derived from caprylic acid. Generally well-tolerated.
from the analysis of Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50Caprylyl glycol is a skin conditioning agent and preservative booster. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. It helps to enhance the antimicrobial activity of other preservatives.
from the analysis of Honest The Honest Company Flushable Wipes Plant-Based 126 Count Gilded WingsAll 24 products with Caprylyl Glycol
Where Caprylyl Glycol shows up
- Makeup 7 products
- Sunscreen 7 products
- Diapers & Wipes 2 products
- Body Care 2 products
- Lip Care 2 products
- Hand Sanitizer 2 products
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