Coco-Caprylate
Coco-Caprylate is a lightweight, silky emollient derived from coconut that feels elegant on the skin without any greasy residue. It is commonly used in UK moisturisers, facial oils, sunscreens and hair serums as a plant-based alternative to silicones. Shoppers like it for its smooth, non-comedogenic finish that helps products glide on easily.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare formulations, coco-caprylate functions as a skin-conditioning agent and emollient. It spreads easily across the skin or hair shaft, reducing friction and improving product slip while forming a breathable, non-occlusive layer that helps lock in moisture without clogging pores. Its low viscosity and excellent spreadability make it a popular silicone alternative in clean-beauty and natural-leaning British formulations.
Key benefits
- Provides a silky, non-greasy after-feel
- Excellent skin-conditioning and softening properties
- Improves product spreadability and glide
- Helps reduce transepidermal water loss
- Lightweight texture suitable for layering
- Non-comedogenic and suitable for daily use
Best for
dry skin, normal skin, combination skin, sensitive skin, oily skin
Where it comes from
Coco-caprylate is produced by the esterification of coconut-derived fatty alcohols (mainly caprylic alcohol) with coconut fatty acids. It is a fully plant-derived, renewable ingredient sourced primarily from coconut palms.