Caprylyl Glycol CAS 1117-86-8

Caprylyl Glycol – Multifunctional Humectant and Preservative Booster for Cosmetics

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 1117-86-8

• Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₈O₂

• Molecular Weight: 146.23 g/mol

• Synonyms: 1,2-Octanediol, Octane-1,2-diol

• Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellowish liquid

• Odor: Practically odorless

• Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols; miscible with most organic solvents

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Caprylyl glycol (1,2-octanediol) is a multifunctional organic diol widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations. It features a linear C8 alkyl chain with two hydroxyl groups, providing both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties. This amphiphilic character makes it an effective humectant, skin conditioner, and preservative booster. Its proven antimicrobial activity allows it to enhance the efficacy of primary preservatives while improving the sensory feel and stability of formulations.

Applications

• Skin care: Moisturizers, serums, creams, and lotions – provides hydration, improves spreadability, and enhances skin feel.

• Hair care: Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products – adds moisture, improves manageability, and reduces static.

• Preservative systems: Acts as a co-preservative, boosting the antimicrobial activity of other preservatives (e.g., phenoxyethanol, parabens, organic acids).

• Color cosmetics: Foundations, concealers, and primers – improves texture and wear.

• Other: Suitable for use in sunscreens, baby care, and sensitive skin formulations.

Key Benefits

• Excellent humectant – attracts and retains moisture, keeping skin and hair hydrated.

• Skin conditioning – imparts a smooth, non‑tacky feel.

• Enhances the antimicrobial efficacy of preservatives, reducing the need for high preservative loads.

• Mild and non‑irritating – suitable for sensitive skin and baby care.

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.

• Acts as a co‑emulsifier and emulsion stabilizer.

• Provides a pleasant, light sensory feel.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 0.5–5.0% of the formulation, depending on the desired humectant, skin conditioning, and preservative‑boosting effects. For optimal performance, incorporate into the water phase or add at room temperature with agitation. Can be combined with other humectants and preservatives for tailored performance.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well‑tolerated by skin and eyes.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Shelf life: typically 24 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, moisture content, and antimicrobial activity to ensure consistent quality and compliance with cosmetic standards.