Caprylyl Glycol

Caprylyl Glycol

Multifunctional Humectant & Preservative Booster

INCI Name: Caprylyl Glycol

Appearance: Clear liquid or waxy/solid (temperature dependent)

Solubility: Soluble in alcohols and oils; slightly soluble / dispersible in water

Usage Rate: 0.5% – 1.5%

Function: Humectant, skin conditioner, preservative booster, antimicrobial support

Caprylyl Glycol is a high-value multifunctional used to improve skin feel and support preservation performance. It contributes light moisturization and slip, while boosting microbial robustness in modern preservation systems. Commonly used in serums, lotions, creams, and rinse-off products where gentle but effective preservation support is needed.

Common Applications

• Facial creams and lotions
• Hydrating serums and emulsions
• Cleansers and toners
• Makeup and BB/CC creams
• Scalp treatments and rinse-off products

Why Use Caprylyl Glycol?

Caprylyl Glycol (1,2-octanediol) is widely used as a preservative booster and sensory enhancer. It helps improve overall microbial stability when combined with a broad-spectrum preservative system, while also contributing a smoother, more conditioned feel on skin and hair.

Key Benefits

• Preservative booster: supports broader preservation performance and can improve system efficiency
• Antimicrobial support: helps inhibit microbial growth when used within a complete preservative strategy
• Sensory enhancer: adds slip, softness, and a less “dry” finish in many emulsions
• Multifunctional value: humectant + conditioner + preservation support in one ingredient
• Broad compatibility: suitable for leave-on and rinse-off systems

Performance Notes

• Works well alongside preservatives like phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, and many preservative blends
• Often improves skin feel while supporting preservation robustness
• For clear aqueous systems, a solubilizer may be required depending on the formula

How to Use

• Add during cool-down (<45 °C) or post-emulsification
• Can be blended into the oil phase or added after emulsification with good mixing
• If solid at room temperature, warm gently to liquefy before dosing
• Typical pH range: 4.5 – 8.0
• Usage rate: 0.5% – 1.5%

Formulation Tip

Caprylyl Glycol is not a complete preservative on its own. For reliable microbial control, use it as part of a properly designed broad-spectrum preservative system and validate with challenge testing.

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COA

SDS