Neutral Oil MTC Caprylis, 100 ml

Neutral MCT Caprylis oil is a light plant-based emollient for the oil phase that softens the skin without leaving a greasy film. In a formulation it forms the base of the oil phase, serves as a carrier for oil-active ingredients and essential oils, and reduces the heavy feel of richer butters and oils. Its oxidation stability and low inherent scent make it suitable for facial, body, and baby cosmetics.

It is produced by esterification of saturated medium-chain fatty acids (caprylic C8 and capric C10) from coconut and palm kernel oil with plant-based glycerin. The resulting triglyceride behaves like an oil but contains no unsaturated bonds. It therefore does not yellow or turn rancid as easily as conventional pressed oils.

Key benefits

• Light, non-greasy feel – spreads at a moderate pace, the skin absorbs it readily, and the finish after absorption is smooth rather than shiny.
• Oxidation resistance – saturated fatty acids do not change colour or scent, so the finished product yellows less and retains its original character longer.
• Neutral scent – does not interfere with the product's fragrance, making it suitable for delicate scent compositions as well as unscented products.
• Stays liquid in cold conditions – does not solidify at normal storage and transport temperatures, so oil serums and roll-ons remain clear.
• Solvent for oil-soluble components – dissolves fat-soluble vitamins, oil extracts, essential oils, and fragrance compositions.
• Skin compatibility – suitable for all skin types including sensitive, baby, and acne-prone skin, in both leave-on and rinse-off products.

Use in formulation

Added to the oil phase. It can be processed at room temperature or with heating; when making emulsions it is warmed together with the other oils and waxes. The recommended processing temperature is up to 80 °C. It mixes with vegetable oils, butters, esters, and ethanol. It does not dissolve in water or glycols (glycerine, propylene glycol); it is incorporated into water-based products via an emulsifier or solubiliser.

The indicative usage level is 5 – 60 % depending on product type. In creams and lotions it forms part of the oil phase; in body oils, massage blends, and oil serums it can form the basis of the entire formula. The recommended pH range for the finished formulation is 4.0 – 7.0. It is compatible with anionic, cationic, non-ionic, and amphoteric surfactants, with common preservatives, and with fragrance.

The oil has low viscosity. At a high concentration in an emulsion the product comes out thinner; consistency is adjusted with a thickener or consistency agent such as Cetyl Alcohol or Glyceryl Stearate. Anhydrous products (oil serums, balms, body oils) do not require preservation. Emulsions with a water phase require a preservative like any water-containing product; the oil itself does not affect the preservation system.

Its miscibility with ethanol makes it suitable as a carrier in perfume oils and roll-ons and for diluting essential oils before applying them to the skin.

Suitable for products such as

• facial and body oils, oil serums, roll-ons with essential oils
• creams, lotions, and light O/W and W/O emulsions as part of the oil phase
• massage oils where longer glide and moderately fast absorption are desired
• lip balms, solid body balms, shower and bath oils
• hair oils, tip serums, and scalp treatments
• baby cosmetics and intimate hygiene products
• cleansing oils, cleansing balms, deodorants and antiperspirant sticks

Good to know

It differs from ordinary coconut oil in both composition and behaviour. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, has a distinct scent, and contains longer fatty acids, particularly lauric acid. Neutral MCT Oil contains only C8 and C10 acids in a ratio of approximately 60 : 40, so it remains liquid, has no scent, and is significantly more stable.

The raw material is of plant origin and carries the RSPO Mass Balance certificate, meaning the palm kernel portion comes from a supply chain that supports sustainable palm oil production. It contains no fragrance allergens, preservatives, antioxidants, or solvents.

Frequently asked questions