Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Lightweight emollient derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. Non-comedogenic, absorbs quickly, and is used as a replacement for heavier oils.
Evidence by route
Topical application
An auxiliary emollient, not an active ingredient. Safety confirmed by CIR. Well tolerated even on sensitive skin. No standalone therapeutic effect.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Int J Toxicol. 2000;19(Suppl 1):13-25.
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (MCT oil) is a blend of medium-chain triglycerides of C8 (caprylic) and C10 (capric) fatty acids. One of the most widespread emollients in cosmetics. Produced by fractionation of coconut or palm kernel oil with subsequent esterification with glycerol. Mechanism. Forms a thin lipid film on skin, retains moisture, fills the gaps between corneocytes in the stratum corneum. Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Unlike heavier oils, it absorbs quickly without an oily residue. Where applied. Light creams and emulsions (3-25%), body oils, cleansing oils, baby skincare, lipsticks and balms, makeup removers. A solvent for fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), UV filters, essential oils. In Spain – in Mustela, Babé Pediatric, ISDIN Babe. Evidence base. Stamatas 2008 on infant skin showed barrier recovery within 7-14 days in newborns using MCT oil. In atopic dermatitis and xerosis patients, stratum corneum hydration gains are comparable to mineral oil but with better tolerability and cosmetic acceptability (Loden 2003). Safety. CIR confirmed safety up to 50%. Non-comedogenic per INCIDecoder and Cosmetics Info; 1970s Fulton scale rated it higher, but modern data refute comedogenicity of pure MCT. Hypoallergenic. Compatible with any skin including newborns. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage, on any skin area including face and breasts during breastfeeding. Suitable for stretch-mark massage (mechanical effect, not prevention). What to combine with. A universal carrier: mixes with any lipids, silicones, waxes, essential oils. Often serves as the base for anhydrous oil serums.
Frequently asked questions
Is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride safe during pregnancy?
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride for?
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
What is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and what does it do in cosmetics?
Lightweight emollient derived from coconut or palm kernel oil.
What's the INCI name for Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride?
The INCI name is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. It may also appear as: Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, C8-10 Triglyceride, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides.
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Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate, Caprylyl Glycol, Carapa Guaianensis Seed Oil, Carica Papaya Seed Oil, Glyceryl Linolenate, Isoleucine, Plankton Extract, Triolein
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