Caprylyl Glycol (1,2-Octanediol) – Preservative Booster & Humectant for Cosmetic Formulations

Caprylyl Glycol is a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient used to improve the feel, stability and preservation of skincare and personal-care formulations.

Also known as 1,2-Octanediol, it works as a lightweight humectant and emollient while helping create an environment that is less favourable to microbial growth. It is commonly combined with established preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol to improve overall preservative performance.

Caprylyl Glycol is particularly useful when formulating modern creams, lotions, serums, cleansers, toners and other water-containing cosmetic products.

Why Formulators Use Caprylyl Glycol

  • Helps boost the performance of a properly designed preservative system
  • Provides light humectant and skin-conditioning properties
  • Improves softness and the after-feel of cosmetic formulations
  • Supports product stability in water-containing products
  • Suitable for a wide range of skincare, haircare and cleansing formulations
  • Allows formulators to create elegant, multifunctional preservation systems

Product Information

INCI: Caprylyl Glycol
Alternative name: 1,2-Octanediol
CAS number: 1117-86-8
Ingredient type: Humectant, emollient and preservative booster
Appearance: White to off-white waxy solid, flakes or crystals
Typical use level: 0.3–1.0%
Solubility: Limited water solubility; soluble in glycols and compatible with many heated oil-phase systems
Recommended addition: Incorporate with suitable solubilising ingredients or into the heated phase until completely dissolved

Always confirm the appropriate usage level and processing method through formulation and stability testing.

How to Use

Caprylyl Glycol must be properly dissolved or dispersed within the formulation. It may be incorporated into a heated oil phase or pre-dissolved in a compatible cosmetic solvent or glycol, depending on the formulation.

Heat gently above its melting point and mix until the ingredient is completely incorporated. Avoid adding undissolved flakes directly to a cold water phase, as this may lead to crystallisation or uneven distribution.

Example Calculation

For a 100 g formulation using Caprylyl Glycol at 0.5%:

Caprylyl Glycol required: 0.5 g

For a 1 kg formulation using Caprylyl Glycol at 0.5%:

Caprylyl Glycol required: 5 g

Suitable Formulation Types

Caprylyl Glycol can be used in:

  • Facial serums
  • Moisturisers and facial creams
  • Body lotions
  • Gel-creams
  • Cleansing gels and emulsions
  • Toners and facial mists
  • Hair conditioners
  • Scalp-care products
  • Body washes
  • Eye-area formulations
  • Deodorant formulations

Preservative-System Guidance

Caprylyl Glycol can improve the effectiveness of a broader preservative system, but it should not automatically be treated as a complete standalone preservative.

The finished formulation must use an appropriate preservation strategy based on its water content, packaging, manufacturing conditions and intended use. Water-containing products should undergo professional microbiological challenge testing before being offered for sale.

Formulation Tips

  • Combine with an appropriate broad-spectrum preservative rather than relying on Caprylyl Glycol alone.
  • Ensure the ingredient is completely dissolved to prevent crystallisation in the finished product.
  • Confirm compatibility with the chosen emulsifier, surfactants and packaging.
  • Test the finished formulation at different storage temperatures.
  • Carry out stability and preservative-efficacy testing before commercial production.
  • Follow the supplier’s technical documentation when working with a specific grade.

Storage

Store tightly closed in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place. Protect from excessive heat, moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the original container securely sealed when not in use.

Important Information

This is a cosmetic raw material intended for formulation use. It is not a finished cosmetic product and should not be applied directly to the skin in its supplied form.

For external cosmetic formulation use only. Keep out of reach of children. Wear suitable protective equipment when handling raw materials. The formulator is responsible for assessing compatibility, stability, preservation, safety and regulatory compliance of the finished product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Caprylyl Glycol a preservative?

Caprylyl Glycol has antimicrobial-supporting properties and is widely used as a preservative booster. However, it may not provide complete broad-spectrum protection when used alone.

Is Caprylyl Glycol the same as 1,2-Octanediol?

Yes. Caprylyl Glycol is the cosmetic INCI name commonly used for 1,2-Octanediol.

Can it be used in cold-process formulations?

It may be possible when Caprylyl Glycol is first dissolved in a suitable compatible ingredient. Because it is normally supplied as a waxy solid or flakes, gentle heating is often the easiest way to achieve complete incorporation.

Can it be added directly to water?

Caprylyl Glycol has limited water solubility and may not dissolve evenly when added directly to water. Pre-dissolving it in a compatible solvent, glycol or heated phase is generally preferable.

Does the finished product need challenge testing?

Yes. Any water-containing cosmetic product intended for sale should undergo appropriate stability and microbiological testing, including preservative-efficacy testing.