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Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate

What Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is & what it does

A lightweight emollient ester made by joining butylene glycol with caprylic and capric fatty acids derived from coconut or palm oil. In a sunscreen it spreads the formula smoothly, softens the skin, and gives a light, non-greasy slip that helps filters apply evenly. It also acts as a solvent that can help dissolve oil-soluble UV filters and improve the overall feel.

What does Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate do in skincare?

Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is a synthetic ester used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. In sunscreens and cosmetics it gives a smooth, light, non-greasy feel and can help spread and dissolve other ingredients. It improves the texture and slip of the formula.

Does Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate clog pores?

This ester is a lightweight emollient and is generally regarded as a non-greasy, well-tolerated option, so it is not commonly singled out as a heavy pore-clogger. As with any emollient, individual skin can respond differently. Very acne-prone users may want to watch how their skin reacts to a new product.

Is Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate natural or synthetic?

Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is a synthetic ester, produced by combining neopentyl glycol with caprylic and capric acids. While its fatty acid portion can be sourced from plants such as coconut, the finished ester is lab-made. It is therefore generally classed as a synthetic emollient.

Sunscreens with Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate

We rate 8 sunscreens that contain it:

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