Caprylyl Dimethicone Ethoxy Glucoside

What is Caprylyl Dimethicone Ethoxy Glucoside?

Caprylyl Dimethicone Ethoxy Glucoside is a hybrid non-ionic surfactant blending dimethicone—a silicone polymer—with a caprylyl alkyl chain and ethoxylated glucose derivative. This unique structure makes it suitable for rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics like facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and moisturizers. It works by significantly lowering surface tension between oil and water, enabling effective dirt and oil removal through foaming action. As an emulsifier, it forms a stable interfacial film that mixes immiscible phases, preventing separation in lotions and creams. Its emulsion-stabilizing properties enhance product shelf-life and texture by reinforcing droplet barriers, offering a gentle alternative to harsher traditional surfactants while maintaining mildness on skin and hair.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.

Benefits

Delivers soft lather for effective yet non-stripping cleansing in washes and shampoos.

Supports uniform blending of ingredients for smooth, consistent cream and lotion textures.

Enhances product stability to maintain performance over time without phase separation.

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 seeking mild surfactants in daily cleansers.
Those with rare silicone sensitivities.
Users of emulsions like lotions preferring stable formulations.
Users preferring fully natural, silicone-free products.
People with low-comedogenic needs in skincare routines.
Individuals experiencing issues with ethoxylated compounds.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard with minimal irritation potential in cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Caprylyl Dimethicone Ethoxy Glucoside

What makes it different from regular surfactants?

Its silicone-glucoside hybrid provides gentle foaming and emulsifying with enhanced mildness.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its low irritation profile supports use in products for delicate skin types.

Does it affect product texture?

It stabilizes emulsions for smoother, longer-lasting lotions and creams.