Caprylyl Glycol

kap-RIH-lul GLY-kol

Conditioning Agent, Humectant, Preservative 9/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Semi-synthetic Vegan

What Is Caprylyl Glycol?

Caprylyl Glycol is a glycol derived from caprylic acid (found in coconut and palm oils) that serves as a preservative booster, skin conditioning agent, and humectant. It works similarly to ethylhexylglycerin and is often used alongside phenoxyethanol to create effective paraben-free preservation systems. It also contributes emollient properties.

Source: Coconut oil or palm oil (caprylic acid derivative)

Origin: Semi-synthetic

Also known as: 1,2-Octanediol, Caprylyl Glycol

What Does Caprylyl Glycol Do to Your Hair?

Caprylyl Glycol enhances the antimicrobial effectiveness of primary preservatives by disrupting microbial cell membranes. It also provides humectant properties, attracting moisture to the hair and scalp. Additionally, it improves the sensory feel of products, lending a smooth, moisturized texture without greasiness.

Best For

All hair types (functional ingredient, not hair-type specific)

Not Recommended For

Not known to be problematic for any hair type

Concentration Matters

0.1-1%

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

9/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Very safe at cosmetic concentrations. Well-tolerated with minimal irritation potential. CIR panel considers safe at typical use levels. No sensitization concerns. A preferred ingredient in clean and natural beauty formulations.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics. CIR panel considers safe at current use concentrations.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

Caprylyl Glycol is a gentle, effective preservative booster that contributes to both product safety and hair feel. HairAide likes seeing it paired with phenoxyethanol in clean beauty products. It is one of those ingredients that does quiet, important work in keeping your products safe and pleasant to use.

Products That Contain Caprylyl Glycol

Shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, styling products, serums, clean beauty products

Alternatives to Caprylyl Glycol

If you want to avoid Caprylyl Glycol, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Caprylyl Glycol safe for hair?

Yes, Caprylyl Glycol has a safety rating of 9/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe at cosmetic concentrations. Well-tolerated with minimal irritation potential. CIR panel considers safe at typical use levels. No sensitization concerns. A preferred ingredient in clean and natural beauty formulations.

Is Caprylyl Glycol bad for curly hair?

Caprylyl Glycol is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Caprylyl Glycol CG-method approved?

Yes, Caprylyl Glycol is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Caprylyl Glycol?

Some alternatives to Caprylyl Glycol include: Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate

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