1. What is Capric Triglyceride?
Caprylic triglyceride is a commonly used ingredient in soap and cosmetics. It is usually made from a combination of coconut oil and glycerin. This ingredient is sometimes called capric triglyceride or mistakenly called fractionated coconut oil. Caprylic triglyceride has been used for over 50 years. It has a soothing effect on the skin and good antioxidant activity. Besides, it also binds other ingredients together and can act as a preservative to help the active ingredients in cosmetics last longer.
Caprylic triglyceride is considered a natural alternative to other synthetic chemicals found in topical products. Companies that claim their products are “organic” or “all-natural” often include caprylic triglyceride. A chemical process separates the liquid fat so that the “pure” version of caprylic triglyceride can be obtained.
2. Benefits of Caprylic/Capric triglycerides
Caprylic triglyceride is derived from natural fatty acids. It is a clear liquid with a slightly sweet taste. Its high fat content, along with its texture and antioxidant properties, makes it widely used in skincare products and soaps.
2.1 Skin Softener
A skin softener helps make your skin smoother and softer. Skin softeners work by retaining moisture in the skin and forming a protective layer that prevents the moisture from evaporating. Caprylic triglyceride is a commonly used skin-softening ingredient in cosmetic products.
2.2 Dispersing Agent
A dispersing agent helps keep the ingredients in a formula stable and well-mixed. By blending active ingredients, colorants, or fragrances in a good dispersing agent, these components do not clump together or settle at the bottom of the mixture. The unique properties of caprylic triglyceride make it an excellent dispersing agent.
2.3 Solvents
Solvents are substances that can dissolve or break the bonds of other substances or ingredients. An ingredient is considered a solvent based on the molecular structure and shape of the compound and how it interacts with other substances. Caprylic triglycerides can dissolve compounds so that they blend together. While some solvents have toxic ingredients, caprylic triglyceride is relatively safe.
2.4 Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize free radicals or harmful substances that you come into contact with every day. Antioxidants help prevent oxidation, which can age your skin and harm your body. Caprylic triglycerides are rich in antioxidants, so they play a role in keeping your skin looking young and feeling younger.
3. Applications of Caprylic/capric triglyceride
Caprylic triglyceride can be found in topical skincare products, including facial moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sunscreens, eye creams, and more. It is used to extend the shelf life of cosmetic products, brighten the skin without leaving a greasy feel, and enhance the antioxidant properties of the product.
Caprylic triglyceride is also a common ingredient in makeup and other cosmetics. It keeps ingredients evenly distributed in cosmetic formulas without leaving a sticky feeling on your skin. You'll often see this ingredient listed in the following cosmetics: lipstick, lip balm, lip liner, primer, and foundation.
4. Is Caprylic/capric Triglyceride Safe?
When used topically, caprylic triglyceride has very low toxicity. The FDA notes that it is generally recognized as safe in small amounts as a food additive. This means it is non-toxic if you consume trace amounts of caprylic triglyceride in lipstick or lip balm. Unless you have a severe allergy to coconut oil, the risk of an allergic reaction from using caprylic triglyceride is very low. There are some environmental concerns about the use of caprylic triglyceride. Currently, there is limited knowledge about how it breaks down in nature and whether it may accumulate and pose a threat to wildlife. Further research is needed to determine the safest way to dispose of products containing caprylic triglyceride.
In summary, current research states that caprylic triglyceride is safe for most people to use. Consuming small amounts of caprylic as a food additive, sweetener, or cosmetic product does not pose any risk to your health. Caprylic triglyceride is one of the cleanest ingredients you can find as a natural alternative to chemical ingredients. Everyone’s skin reacts differently to different chemicals. It is always a good idea to do a patch test before using a new cosmetic product on your skin.
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Reference source: healthline.com
