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Caprylic Acid

What Caprylic Acid is & what it does

Caprylic Acid is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid found naturally in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and milk fats. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it serves as an emollient and as a building block for milder surfactants and emulsifiers, and it is also noted for antimicrobial properties. Its short fatty-acid chain gives it a lighter feel than longer-chain fatty acids.

What does Caprylic Acid do in skincare?

Caprylic Acid is a medium-chain fatty acid that serves as an emollient and as a building block for milder surfactants and emulsifiers. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it can also contribute to a product's preservation through antimicrobial activity. Its shorter chain gives a lighter feel than longer-chain fatty acids.

Is Caprylic Acid safe?

Caprylic Acid occurs naturally in coconut oil and milk fats and is widely used in cosmetics at low levels, where it is generally well tolerated. As with any ingredient, its overall effect depends on concentration and the full formula. People with sensitive skin can patch test to confirm tolerance.

Is Caprylic Acid natural or synthetic?

Caprylic Acid is found naturally in sources like coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and milk fats, and it can also be produced synthetically. The finished ingredient is chemically the same regardless of source. Brands emphasizing plant origin will usually state it.

Sunscreens with Caprylic Acid

We rate 19 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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