A copolymer of glycerin, caprylic and sebacic acids. A plant-based silicone alternative: gives light slip, smooths skin texture, fills fine lines. Common in clean formulas, primers and sunscreens. Non-comedogenic.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional sensory modifier and emollient. Safety confirmed by CIR. No standalone active properties.
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer is a synthetic biopolymer made from glycerin, caprylic acid (C8 from coconut), and sebacic acid (C10, from castor oil). Trade name LexFeel N350 (Inolex). Marketed as a plant-derived alternative to silicones like dimethicone and cyclopentasiloxane. Mechanism. Forms a thin polymer film on the skin that gives a silky slip. Fills stratum-corneum irregularities, optically smoothing skin texture and softening fine lines. Unlike silicones, it is biodegradable (OECD 301B test – 60% degradation within 28 days). Where applied. Makeup primers, mineral sunscreens, foundations, silicone-free clean-beauty products, BB creams, day creams with soft-focus effect. Used at 1-10%. In Spain – in lines labeled "vegan" and "silicone-free" (Freshly Cosmetics, La Vie de Cheveux). Evidence base. The manufacturer (Inolex) provides in vitro biodegradability data and sensory tests (n=20-30) showing tactile comparability with dimethicone. No independent clinical RCTs on efficacy or advantages over silicones exist. Safety. No CIR review yet (the ingredient has been on the market since 2018). The manufacturer reports low irritation and sensitization potential. Non-comedogenic. EU SCCS has set no restrictions. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topical systemic absorption is minimal due to large molecular weight. Acceptable at any stage in face and body products. Pros and limits. Advantage over cyclic siloxanes (D4, D5, D6) – biodegradability and no EU environmental restrictions. Limit – not a full replacement: the visual-sensory effect is milder; the "photoshop-filter" effect is weaker than dimethicone crosspolymer.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A copolymer of glycerin, caprylic and sebacic acids.
The INCI name is Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer. It may also appear as: LexFeel N350, Каприлоилглицерин сополимер.
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Suitable for