Ingredient
Caprylyl Glycol
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
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
There 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 minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen · echoed in 1 other analysisThere 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 ScentThere are minimal risks, primarily related to potential skin irritation.
from the analysis of e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm - StrawberryThe case for
It 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 preserve the product.
from the analysis of Supergoop! Unseen Clear & Invisible Face Sunscreen - SPF 50It enhances skin hydration and helps to maintain product stability.
from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut ScentIt retains moisture and improves the texture of cosmetic products.
from the analysis of hello bello Mineral SPF55+ Sunscreen Lotion with Prebiotics for Babies and KidsIt helps maintain skin hydration and improves product texture.
from the analysis of Supergoop! Glowscreen Sunrise Hydrating Glowy Tinted Primer Sunscreen with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide - SPF 40More from Scout's analyses
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.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50Synthetic 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 used as a skin conditioning agent and preservative in cosmetics. It helps to improve the moisture content of the skin.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 SunscreenFound in 18 products
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