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Caprylhydroxamic Acid

What Caprylhydroxamic Acid is & what it does

A gentle, glycine-derived preservative that works across a wide pH range, often paired with glycols. It controls fungi and supports natural preservative systems.

What is Caprylhydroxamic Acid and what does it do in sunscreen?

Caprylhydroxamic Acid is a gentle preservative-booster derived from amino acids. It is especially good at controlling fungi and yeast, which fills a gap left by some milder preservatives, and it stays effective across a wide range of pH. In a sunscreen it is usually part of a modern, low-irritation preservative system, often paired with glycols to keep the product safe from microbial growth.

Is Caprylhydroxamic Acid safe?

Yes. It is a widely used, well-tolerated preservative ingredient valued precisely because it is gentle and works at low levels. It is a common choice in formulas aimed at sensitive skin and "clean" preservative systems. It is not a common irritant or allergen at cosmetic concentrations.

Is Caprylhydroxamic Acid a preservative?

Yes. It functions as a preservative and preservative-booster, helping stop bacteria, yeast and mould from growing in the product. It is particularly strong against fungi, which is why it is often combined with other preservatives that handle bacteria, giving broad protection. It also works across a wide pH range, unlike some traditional preservatives.

Does Caprylhydroxamic Acid clog pores?

No. It is used at very low levels as a preservative, not as an oil or emollient, so it is not a pore-clogging ingredient. If a product is breaking you out, the richer oils and waxes in the formula are far more likely the cause.

What else is Caprylhydroxamic Acid called?

On a label it appears under its INCI name, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, sometimes shortened to CHA in formulation notes. It is frequently sold and listed as part of a blend with glycerin and a glycol, where it acts as the antifungal part of a gentle preservative system.

Sunscreens with Caprylhydroxamic Acid

We rate 433 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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