Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
Mild non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut or palm oil and glucose. One of the gentlest cleansing components – does not dry or compromise the barrier. Used in cleansers and shampoos for sensitive skin and baby formulas. Sometimes a secondary solubilizer in toners and micellar waters.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Mild cleansing surfactant. By TEWL and zein-test results one of the gentlest – irritation level comparable to water. Suitable for sensitive skin and baby cosmetics.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment.
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is a non-ionic surfactant made from coconut/palm fatty alcohols and corn glucose. Belongs to the alkyl polyglucoside (APG) group – one of the gentlest categories of cleansing actives. Production. Direct synthesis between fatty alcohol and glucose. Certified by COSMOS-organic, EWG Verified; biodegradability >90% within 28 days (OECD 301B). Where applied. Gentle face and body washes for sensitive skin and infants (2-15%), shampoos, micellar waters (as secondary solubilizer), baby products. In Spain – Babé Pediatric, ISDIN Baby Naturals, Mustela Bébé. Mechanism. Forms micelles that trap lipids and dirt without dissolving the skin's own lipids. Does not disrupt intercellular ceramides – unlike SLS and SLES. Mildly acidic pH (5-7), close to physiological skin pH. Evidence base. Mehling 2007 compared APG to SLS on the skin of 30 volunteers: APG was 5-10 times less irritating by the Davis test (TEWL, erythema, scaling). In atopic cleansing formulas APG does not worsen barrier function (Eichenfield 2014). Safety. CIR confirmed safety of APG at use concentrations. Hypoallergenic, non-sensitizing. Suitable for neonatal skin, atopic patients, rosacea. EWG rating 1 (minimal risk). Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage in any product. One of the safest cleansing components in cosmetics. Difference from standard surfactants. Foams less than SLS, SLES, SCS – requires habit adjustment. The perceived "cleansing power" is subjectively lower but objectively on par (Mehling 2007). Often needs thickeners (xanthan gum, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose).
Frequently asked questions
Is Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside safe during pregnancy?
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside for?
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside and what does it do in cosmetics?
Mild non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut or palm oil and glucose.
What's the INCI name for Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside?
The INCI name is Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside. It may also appear as: Caprylyl Capryl Glucoside, Caprylyl Glucoside, Capryl Glucoside.
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Ceramide EOP, Ceramide EOS, Ceramide NG, Ceramides, Glycosphingolipid, Lysolecithin, Phytosterols, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide
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