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Tricaprylin

What Tricaprylin is & what it does

Tricaprylin is a triglyceride formed from glycerin and caprylic acid, a medium-chain fatty acid. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it works as an emollient and a solvent that helps dissolve oil-soluble ingredients and gives products a smooth, light skin feel. It is a common, well-tolerated lipid carrier valued for its low odor and stability.

What does Tricaprylin do in skincare?

Tricaprylin acts as an emollient and an oil-phase solvent. It helps dissolve oil-soluble ingredients and spreads easily, giving products a smooth, lightweight feel on the skin. It is a triglyceride of glycerin and caprylic acid, so it behaves much like a light, refined plant oil.

Is Tricaprylin natural or synthetic?

Tricaprylin can be either, depending on sourcing. It is built from glycerin and caprylic acid, both of which can come from plant oils such as coconut or palm, or be produced synthetically. The finished ingredient is the same triglyceride regardless of route.

Is Tricaprylin comedogenic?

Tricaprylin is a light triglyceride and is generally considered low on comedogenicity scales, though responses vary by person. Comedogenic potential depends on the whole formula and your own skin. If you are very acne-prone, patch testing a new product is a reasonable precaution.

Sunscreens with Tricaprylin

We rate 10 sunscreens that contain it:

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