Caprylyl Glycol
Caprylyl glycol is a versatile, skin-friendly ingredient used in UK beauty products as a moisturiser, preservative booster and texture enhancer. It helps keep formulas stable and fresh while leaving skin feeling soft and smooth. You'll find it in everything from moisturisers and serums to cleansers and haircare.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, caprylyl glycol functions as a humectant that draws moisture into the skin, a mild preservative that helps inhibit microbial growth, and an emollient that improves the spreadability and feel of a product. It is frequently used alongside other preservatives to boost their effectiveness, allowing for lower overall preservative levels in clean-beauty formulations. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it ideal for both leave-on and rinse-off products, enhancing the sensory experience without leaving residue.
Key benefits
- Attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Enhances preservative efficacy for product stability
- Leaves skin feeling soft and conditioned
- Non-irritating and gentle on sensitive skin
- Helps prevent dryness in hair and scalp formulations
Best for
dry skin, sensitive skin, normal skin, combination skin, acne-prone skin
Where it comes from
Caprylyl glycol is typically derived from caprylic acid, a fatty acid naturally found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It can be produced through plant-based fermentation or synthetic processes using renewable vegetable sources.