Ingredient guide ›

Glyceryl Caprylate

The skin-softening helper.

What it does

Made from glycerin and a coconut fatty acid. It softens skin, helps oil and water mix and helps keep products fresh.

Good to know

Belongs to the same group as food additive E 471. EU food scientists (EFSA) reviewed that group in 2017 and saw no need to set a daily limit.

Often found in: Shampoos, Shower gels, Deodorants, Face creams

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

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of mono- and di-glycerides of fatty acids (E 471) as food additives (2017) (Independent)
• CIR: Safety Assessment of Monoglyceryl Monoesters as Used in Cosmetics (2020) (Industry-funded)