Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Plant-derived ester emollient. Gives a velvety dry glide without a greasy afterfeel.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Modern emollient. Well tolerated, non-comedogenic.
- CIR Expert Panel. Int J Toxicol. 2008;27(2 Suppl):1-43.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Dicaprylyl Carbonate is a plant-derived ester emollient. Synthesized from caprylic alcohol (from coconut or palm kernel oil) and carbonate. A light non-greasy emollient with a 'velvety' dry glide. Mechanism. Fills the intercellular space of the stratum corneum, restores the lipid barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss. The medium-chain molecule penetrates the upper skin layers and leaves no greasy film. In formulas it works as a solvent for oil-soluble actives (retinol, tocopherol, fatty acid esters, UV filters), pigment carrier, emulsifier. Where applied. Serums, face and body creams, mineral and chemical sunscreens, lip balms, color cosmetics. Often replaces silicones in 'clean' formulas. In Spain – ISDIN Fotoprotector, La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Heliocare 360, Mesoestetic Photoderm. Evidence base. A functional component with many years of use. Emollient and sensory properties confirmed in standard formulation tests. Modest barrier effect but improves tolerance of active ingredients in formulas. Safety. CIR confirmed Dicaprylyl Carbonate safe in cosmetic use. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. Excellent safety profile. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. No restrictions. Best suited to: any skin type. Especially interesting in oily and combination skin formulas, facial sunscreens, 'light texture' products. A good silicone replacement.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dicaprylyl Carbonate safe during pregnancy?
Dicaprylyl Carbonate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Dicaprylyl Carbonate for?
Dicaprylyl Carbonate suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Dicaprylyl Carbonate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Plant-derived ester emollient.
What's the INCI name for Dicaprylyl Carbonate?
The INCI name is Dicaprylyl Carbonate. It may also appear as: Dicapryl Carbonate.
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