Ingredient guide ›

Caprylyl Glycol

A softening helper.

What it does

Softens skin and hair and helps them feel smooth.

Good to know

Common in sunscreens and creams, often to help preservatives work. Dermatologists report it as a growing cause of skin allergy, so sensitive skin may react.

Often found in: Sunscreens, Hand creams, Body lotions

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• Allergic contact dermatitis to caprylyl glycol (Contact Dermatitis, 2020) (Medical)
• Caprylyl glycol, a trending and highly relevant sensitiser in cosmetics (Contact Dermatitis, 2025) (Medical)
• CIR: Safety assessment of 1,2-glycols as used in cosmetics (2012) (Industry-funded)