Product description

Glyceryl Caprylate/Caprate is a multifunctional ester of glycerin and medium-chain fatty acids (C8/C10 – caprylic/capric), obtained from vegetable oils.
Technologically, it is produced by esterification (reaction of glycerin with fatty acids), which creates a lipophilic component with partially surface-active behavior. In practice, it functions as a light emollient, co-emulsifier and at the same time as a multifunctional “preservative booster” (support of microbial stability in combination with a preservation system).
Thanks to its structure, it improves spreadability, reduces greasy afterfeel and helps stabilize the texture – especially in emulsions and anhydrous products. It contains no PEG or EO/PO and is often sought after in “clean” formulations as well.

Key benefits

• Multifunctional emollient – softens the skin, improves slip and reduces the “heavy” greasy feel.
• Co-emulsifier – supports the stability of emulsions and contributes to a creamier, more compact texture.
• Preservative booster – supports the microbial stability of the formula (especially in combination with a preservative and suitable pH).
• Improved sensoriality – helps to “lighten” the oil phase and improve spreadability even at higher levels of oils/butters.
• Suitable also for mild systems – often used in products where the goal is to minimize irritating components while maintaining stability.

Suitable for products such as

• Creams and body lotions (O/W and W/O) – stability, texture, sensorial profile.
• Facial serums and emulsion fluids – lighter skin feel, improved spreadability.
• Cleansing and wash-off products (shower gels, facial gels, shampoos) – support of mildness and comfort after washing.
• Deodorants (creams and sticks) – improved spreadability and support of formula stability.
• Anhydrous balms (lip balms, body balms, cleansing balms) – slip, “dry touch” effect, fine-tuning of consistency.

Use in formulation

• Soluble in: oils and the oil phase; in water it is insoluble – in aqueous systems it is incorporated via emulsification or a suitable solubilization system.
• Miscible with: vegetable oils, esters, butters and most lipophilic actives; in emulsions it is typically added to the oil phase.
• Compatible with: O/W and W/O emulsifiers (as a co-emulsifier) and common preservation systems; the “booster” effect depends on pH, water activity and the overall composition of the formula.
• Dosage (indicative): most commonly 0.5–5 % depending on product type and target (sensorial profile, co-emulsification, preservation support).
• pH compatibility (indicative): stability is often indicated in the range of pH 4.5–7 (it is recommended to verify this in the specific formula and with the specific preservation system).
• Technological tip: in emulsions you can dissolve it in the oil phase (with gentle heating if needed), or incorporate it cold into an already homogeneous oil blend; then fine-tune the viscosity and stability of the emulsion.

Safety and storage

• Intended for cosmetic use; avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
• Follow standard hygiene practices when working and use clean tools to avoid introducing contamination.
• Store in a tightly closed container, in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
• For sensitive skin, we recommend testing the finished product on a small area (especially for products intended for children or for very reactive skin).

Physical properties

• Appearance: white to creamy thick paste (at temperatures around room temperature).
• HLB (indicative): approximately 4.8 – more lipophilic character, particularly suitable for the oil phase and as a co-emulsifier.
• Behavior in formulations: influences viscosity and skin feel, often reduces greasy afterfeel and improves spreadability.

FAQ

If you want to learn more about the benefits and use of Glyceryl Caprylate/Caprate in a homemade scrub, read our article How to make a homemade sugar scrub with activated charcoal?.
Also check out other preservatives offered by Handymade.sk.