Dicaprylyl Ether

Good

Emollient

Dicaprylyl Ether at a glance

  • Oil derived from caprylic acid, a fatty acid found in coconut and palm kernel oils
  • Provides smooth spreadability and non-greasy emolliency
  • Can be used to enhance formulary texture for more pleasing aesthetics
  • Described as a clear oily liquid in raw material form

Dicaprylyl Ether description

Dicaprylyl ether is an oil derived from caprylic acid, a fatty acid found in coconut and palm kernel oils. It functions as a skin conditioning agent (emollient) and texture-enhancing ingredient to create aesthetically pleasing formulas. Suppliers of this ingredient tout its ability to provide smooth spreadability and a non-greasy feel to skin. As a raw material, it is described as a clear oily liquid and may be plant-derived or synthetic. Dicaprylyl ether is used in all kinds of beauty products including skin care, makeup and hair care. Although the Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety expressed that they are not concerned about the safety of this ingredient, they have not issued a formalised report on it due to insufficient data. Usage levels typically range from 1–8%, and it is sometimes used as a replacement for silicones since it has a similar silky feel.

Dicaprylyl Ether references

  • SpecialChem, Accessed January 2022, ePublication
  • Personal Care Council, December 2021, ePublication

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.