Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is an ester compound derived from coconut fatty acids (caprylic and capric acids).
It is a clear, low-viscosity (11 mPa·s) emollient with a lightweight, non-greasy texture; it offers excellent spreadability, ease of application, and smoothness, while providing low drag and a light, silky feel.
It effectively reduces the "soaping effect" (whitening) during application. In cosmetics, it enhances color payoff and acts as a binder for powders. In hair care products, it serves as an alternative to silicone oils.
It is classified as a medium-weight ester with a density of 0.85 g/mL, making it lighter than typical vegetable oils (usually 0.90 g/mL or higher) and lighter than water (1 g/mL).
Based on this density, 1 gram of the ester corresponds to approximately 1.18 milliliters (since 1 g / 0.85 g/mL ≈ 1.18 mL).
It has a spreading value of 800 mm²/10 minutes, indicating medium spreadability. With a viscosity of 11 mPa·s, it is lightweight-approximately half the viscosity of fractionated coconut oil (also known as MCT or CCT).
Solvent for oil-soluble active ingredients and UV filters
One of the most valuable formulation properties of Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is its ability to dissolve and carry oil-soluble ingredients. It serves as an effective solvent for:
Oil-soluble vitamins (Vitamin E/tocopherol, Vitamin A/retinol, lipid-soluble Vitamin C esters), UV filters (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Avobenzone, Octocrylene), lipophilic active ingredients (Bakuchiol, squalane-soluble peptides, oil-soluble botanical extracts), fragrances, and essential oils.
This dual functionality-acting as both an emollient and a solvent-reduces the need for additional carrier oils or solvents, thereby simplifying the formulation and improving cost-effectiveness.
Silicone alternative
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is a natural, biodegradable alternative widely used to replace Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) and other volatile silicone oils.
It is particularly suitable for products aiming to deliver a silky, fast-absorbing skin feel without the use of synthetic silicones, making it an ideal choice for "clean beauty" and natural product lines.
How Coco-Caprylate/Caprate Benefits Your Skin
Lightweight Hydration
Coco-caprylate/caprate softens and smooths the skin without the heaviness or residue often associated with heavier oils.
For a daily moisturizer applied before morning sunscreen and makeup, this lightweight emollient is an ideal choice-it creates a comfortable, non-greasy base and layers easily with other skincare products.
Non-Comedogenic
Like caprylic/capric triglyceride, coco-caprylate/caprate is non-comedogenic; its medium-chain fatty acid composition does not clog pores or cause breakouts.
This makes it an excellent ingredient for a moisturizer suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Silicone-Like Feel Without the Silicones
Coco-caprylate/caprate is often used as an alternative to silicone oils; it provides a smooth, silky skin feel similar to cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone, yet avoids the environmental persistence issues associated with silicones.
This daily moisturizer is silicone-free; coco-caprylate/caprate helps deliver the smooth, silky texture typically associated with silicones.
