Caprylyl Glycol can be both, vegan and non-vegan. Most likely it is made of palm or coconut oil but it also can be derived from cow’s milk.
Caprylyl Glycol as a skincare ingredient has multiple purposes. It is an emulsifier and a preservative mostly used to improve products texture. It also has many beneficial features for skin. Let’s take a look.
What Is Caprylyl Glycol And What Is It Made Of?
Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from Caprylic Acid. It is mostly found in beauty products as an emulsifier. The colorless ingredient has a very mild and almost sweet scent.
Caprylyl Glycol is also known as an amphiphile. It means the component has the properties of water as well as fat. This makes Caprylyl Glycol easily miscible with other ingredients.
The ingredient derives from Caprylic Acid which is a saturated fatty acid. It occurs naturally in palm or coconut oil, as well as in cow’s milk. Although Caprylyl Glycol is mostly derived from plant or animal sources, it might also be made in a lab.
So, Caprylyl Glycol could be both, vegan and non-vegan. However, Caprylyl Glycol in skincare is most likely plant-based or synthetical and therefore vegan-friendly. But make sure to ask about its origin from the manufacturer before purchase.
Why is Caprylyl Glycol Used In Skincare?
Caprylyl Glycol is used in skincare because it improves the product’s texture. In addition, it is a moisturizing component with antimicrobial properties.
Caprylyl Glycol helps emulsify products and extends the product’s shelf life without the use of other harmful chemicals. It is mostly used to improve the product’s texture and spreadability. But in addition, it acts as a preservative.
These qualities make Caprylyl Glycol a multi-purpose agent that could replace parabens. Caprylyl Glycol also has the capability to improve the usability of other preservatives. That is because it increases their antimicrobial activity.
The ingredient is also special because it does not dry out the skin like other alcohol-based ingredients. It is a humectant and draws water into the skin to retain moisture. Caprylyl Glycol keeps skin hydrated, smooth, and healthy-looking. So it also prevents the first signs of aging.
Caprylyl Glycol also features antimicrobial properties. Many beauty products contain a lot of water and provide an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi. But Caprylyl Glycol has antibacterial properties that keep the bacteria away. Thus, it reduces the risk of breakouts, too.
Caprylyl Glycol is never used alone. It is always part of a formula: cream, serum, or other product.
Caprylyl Glycol is commonly found in vegan moisturizers, vegan cleansers, and vegan sunscreen among others.
FAQ About Caprylyl Glycol
Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from Caprylic Acid. It is mostly found in beauty products as an emulsifier.
Caprylyl Glycol derives from Caprylic Acid which is a saturated fatty acid. It occurs naturally in palm or coconut oil, as well as in cow’s milk. Although Caprylyl Glycol is mostly derived from plant or animal sources, it might also be made in a lab.
Caprylyl Glycol could be both, vegan and non-vegan. Most likely it is made of palm or coconut oil but it could be derived from cow’s milk, too.
Summary
Caprylyl Glycol is a common additive in skincare products. It moisturizes the skin and reduces the signs of premature aging. It also extends the shelf life of the products and gives them a creamy and spreadable texture.
As Caprylyl Glycol might be both, vegan and non-vegan, we recommend asking the seller whether the ingredient is plant-based or not. To be always sure of vegan formulas, buy from 100% vegan brands.
See also: Vegan Skincare Products
