Barrier & Lipid ·
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
What is it?
A lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient ester derived from coconut or palm-kernel oil and glycerin, used to improve the spreadability and skin feel of creams and serums.
What does it do?
According to PubMed, a 2021 case report documented facial allergic contact dermatitis in a patient caused by caprylic/capric triglyceride in a cosmetic cream, confirmed via patch testing -- a reminder that even widely used "natural emollient" ingredients can occasionally sensitize (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cod.14019). A separate formulation-chemistry study found caprylic/capric triglycerides favour the formation of lamellar liquid-crystal structures in cosmetic emulsions (close to the alpha-gel phase), which influences the sensory spreadability of the finished product on skin (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12498).
Sources
This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.