CAPRYLYL GLYCOL

CAPRYLYL GLYCOL: An effective absorbent agent in our care

EXCIPIENT ⎪ ABSORBENT AGENT

What is caprylyl glycol?

The caprylyl glycol is a compound derived fromcaprylic acid, a fatty acid naturally found in coconut oil and palm oil. It belongs to the glycol family, diol alcohols which have moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. Used in care and cosmetic products, caprylyl glycol acts as a moisturizing, emollient and preservative agent. Its ability to lock in moisture and maintain the integrity of formulations makes it a popular ingredient in skin care, hair products and makeup. In addition to its moisturizing qualities, it helps reinforce the effectiveness of other preservatives, thus helping to extend the life of cosmetic products.

Caprylyl glycol is a frequently used ingredient in cosmetics due to its moisturizing, emollient and antimicrobial properties.

It is also a natural humectant, that is to say it retains water. Furthermore, iIt helps to reduce unwanted body odors. 

For these reasons, we have chosen to include it in our gentle deodorant cream.

Where does caprylyl glycol come from?

Caprylyl glycol is primarily derived from caprylic acid, a fatty acid found in natural sources like coconut oil and palm oil. Although it can be obtained naturally, caprylyl glycol used in cosmetic products is often synthesized to ensure consistent purity and quality. Its chemical structure provides effective hydration and stabilizes cosmetic formulations, making it a very popular ingredient in skin and hair care. It is also known for its mild antimicrobial properties, which help preserve product quality without requiring harsher preservatives.

Properties and active ingredients

Caprylyl glycol has several beneficial properties for the skin and cosmetic formulations. Here are its main characteristics and actions:

1. Moisturizing agent : Caprylyl glycol acts as a humectant, meaning it helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, providing long-lasting hydration.
2. Emollient effect : As an emollient, it softens and smoothes the skin, improving its texture and providing a silky feel.
3. Antimicrobial properties : Caprylyl glycol has mild antimicrobial properties that help limit the growth of certain bacteria and yeast in products, extending their shelf life.
4. Strengthening the conservatives : Through its ability to enhance the effectiveness of other preservatives, caprylyl glycol helps maintain the stability of formulations while helping to reduce the amount of preservatives needed.
5. Texture and absorption : Caprylyl glycol is quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for products with a light, non-greasy texture.

What are the benefits of caprylyl glycol?

Caprylyl glycol offers many benefits for skin, skincare products and cosmetic formulations. Here are the main benefits of this versatile ingredient:

1. Prolonged hydration of the skin : As a humectant, caprylyl glycol helps maintain skin hydration, leaving it soft, supple and nourished, even in dry climates or when skin is dehydrated.
2. Improved skin texture and comfort : Its emollient effect softens the skin and reduces feelings of tightness, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
3. Increased formulation stability : Thanks to its mild antimicrobial properties, caprylyl glycol acts as a natural preservative, extending the life of products without the need for harsher synthetic preservatives.
4. Improved skin tolerance : By reducing the necessary amount of preservatives in products, caprylyl glycol improves the skin's tolerance to skincare products, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
5. Compatibility with various skin types : Lightweight and non-comedogenic, caprylyl glycol is well tolerated by all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, without clogging pores.

How to consume caprylyl glycol?

Caprylyl glycol is used mainly in cosmetic and skin and hair care products. Here are the main applications of this ingredient:

• Moisturizers and skin care products : In cosmetics, caprylyl glycol is present in moisturizing creams, lotions, serums and facial masks, where it acts as a hydrating and emollient agent. It helps keep skin soft and hydrated, especially in products for dry and sensitive skin.
• Hair products : Caprylyl glycol is also used in shampoos, conditioners and hair care products to moisturize the scalp, soften hair and improve the texture of formulations without weighing them down.
• Makeup products : In makeup, this ingredient helps maintain a pleasant and silky texture, ensuring better application and prolonged hold. It is commonly found in foundations, lipsticks and mascaras for its moisturizing and stabilizing qualities.
• Cleaning products : As a stabilizing agent, caprylyl glycol is sometimes incorporated into facial cleansers, makeup removers and micellar waters to ensure gentle tolerance and maintain formula stability.

Note : Caprylyl glycol is generally used at low concentrations in cosmetic products, often between 0.5% and 2%, to provide hydration and stability without adverse effects. It is safe for daily use, but it is advisable to check the composition of the products if you have very sensitive skin.

Any side effects?

Caprylyl glycol is generally well tolerated, but certain side effects may occur in particularly sensitive people:

1. Slight skin irritation : Although rare, some people may experience mild skin irritation or tingling when using a product containing caprylyl glycol. It is recommended to do a patch test before using it all over your face.
2. Allergic reactions : Allergic reactions to caprylyl glycol are very rare, but may manifest as redness or itching. People with very reactive skin should check tolerance before use.
3. Increased sensitivity : In case of very sensitive skin, prolonged exposure or high concentration of caprylyl glycol may cause discomfort. It is advisable to avoid using multiple products containing this ingredient at the same time.
4. Comedogenic effect in case of abuse : Although non-comedogenic at low concentrations, excessive application of products containing caprylyl glycol could clog pores in some people. It is recommended to use it in moderation.

Sources

The benefits of caprylyl glycol are well documented in cosmetic and dermatology research. This ingredient is known for its moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, and it is commonly used in skin care products to improve the texture and stability of formulations. Regulatory bodies, such as the FDA and EU, validate its use in cosmetics due to its safety and versatility. Numerous studies also confirm its role in reducing the use of potentially irritating preservatives in cosmetic products.