Coco-Caprylate/Caprate

Good

Emollient

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate at a glance

  • A safe, lightweight emollient
  • Helps skin retain moisture
  • Improves solubility and texture
  • Can be plant-derived or synthetic

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate description

Coco-caprylate/caprate is a lightweight emollient that aids skin’s water retention. It’s created through combining esters from coconut-derived fatty alcohol (the non-drying kind) with caprylic and capric fatty acids, also from coconut. It can be both plant-derived and synthetic. Coco-caprylate/caprate traps moisture within skin, discouraging trans epidermal water loss. Unlike traditional emollients, this ingredient is naturally lightweight, allowing for an airy feel on skin. Coco-caprylate/caprate also impacts the look and feel of cosmetic formulations. Due to its lightweight nature, it helps improve spreadability and enhance texture. This ingredient can also help solubilize other cosmetic ingredients within formulas. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, this emollient is used in both leave-on and rinse-off formulas in concentrations between 0.5% and 62.0% and is deemed safe for use within those concentrations.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate references

  • Applied Sciences, December 2023, pages 1-18
  • Scientific Reports, December 2020, ePublication
  • The Online Journal of Science and Technology, October 2020, pages 152-157
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2015, pages 5S-69S
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, April 2013, pages 1-82

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.