Dicaprylyl Ether
Light plant-derived emollient from coconut/palm kernel oil. Marketed as a natural alternative to cyclic silicones (D4, D5), partially restricted in the EU. Provides a dry, silky feel, absorbs quickly, and aids pigment dispersion. Non-comedogenic.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Dicaprylyl Ether is a light plant-derived emollient ether, synthesized from caprylic alcohol (from coconut or palm kernel oil). Manufacturers market it as a natural alternative to cyclic silicones D4 and D5, which the EU has restricted in leave-on products to 0.1% since 2020 for environmental reasons. Mechanism. Gives a dry silky glide, absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy film. Dissolves oil-soluble actives, helps pigment distribution, emolliently supports the skin barrier over a short period. The short-chain molecule evaporates much more slowly than cyclic silicones, which makes it an emollient, not a 'volatile carrier'. Where applied. Creams, lotions, facial products, sunscreens, color cosmetics, hair products. Especially popular in 'silicone-free', 'natural alternative to D5' marketed formulas. In Spain – Sesderma, Mesoestetic, Cantabria Labs Heliocare, Babé Laboratorios formulas. Evidence base. A functional component. Sensory characteristics (dry glide, no greasy afterfeel) confirmed in standard formulation tests. Modest barrier effect, works primarily within an emollient system. Safety. CIR has not issued a direct evaluation specifically for dicaprylyl ether, but for related emollients in the class – safety is confirmed. Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, allergies rare. Pregnancy and lactation – safe at standard cosmetic concentrations. Best suited to: any skin type. A good pick in oily and combination skin formulas, sunscreens, color cosmetics. A silicone alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dicaprylyl Ether safe during pregnancy?
Dicaprylyl Ether is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Dicaprylyl Ether for?
Dicaprylyl Ether suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Dicaprylyl Ether and what does it do in cosmetics?
Light plant-derived emollient from coconut/palm kernel oil.
Is Dicaprylyl Ether comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Dicaprylyl Ether?
The INCI name is Dicaprylyl Ether. It may also appear as: Di-n-octyl Ether, Cetiol OE.
See Dicaprylyl Ether in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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