Capric Acid

What is Capric Acid?

Capric acid, also known as decanoic acid, is a saturated fatty acid with ten carbon atoms, naturally sourced from coconut oil and palm kernel oil through hydrolysis and fractionation processes. In cosmetics, it belongs to the category of anionic surfactants and fatty acids, commonly found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and emulsions. It functions by reducing surface tension between oil and water, enabling dirt and excess sebum to be lifted and rinsed away during cleansing. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes mixtures of immiscible ingredients, preventing separation in lotions and creams. Additionally, its mild odor-masking properties help balance fragrance profiles, while its antimicrobial nature supports product preservation in rinse-off formulations. Derived renewably, it offers a biodegradable alternative in natural-leaning skincare products.

Comedogenic Rating 2/5 Moderate risk
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Masking
Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Enhances cleansing action by breaking down oils and impurities for thorough removal.

Supports emulsion stability, ensuring smooth textures in creams and lotions.

Aids in odor masking and fragrance enhancement for better sensory appeal.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with normal to oily skin using daily cleansers.
Those with coconut allergies or sensitivities.
Users of shampoos and body washes seeking foaming surfactants.
Acne-prone skin due to moderate comedogenic potential.
People preferring plant-derived ingredients from coconut sources.
Very dry skin types preferring non-fatty acid cleansers.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety assessments.
  • Generally non-irritating for most skin types when rinsed off.

Frequently Asked Questions about Capric Acid

What is capric acid derived from?

It comes naturally from coconut oil and palm kernel oil via hydrolysis.

Is capric acid safe for daily use?

Yes, it's rated low hazard and safe in rinse-off cosmetics at typical levels.

Does it cause breakouts?

It has a moderate comedogenic rating, so patch test for acne-prone skin.