PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides

What is PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides?

PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides is a synthetic surfactant derived from medium-chain fatty acids, primarily caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acids sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils, combined with glycerin and ethoxylated with eight units of polyethylene glycol. This modification enhances its water solubility and functionality. Commonly found in cleansers, shampoos, lotions, and creams, it serves multiple roles: as an emollient to improve skin feel and reduce dryness; a surfactant to lower surface tension for better spreading and removal of dirt; and an emulsifying agent to blend oil and water phases into stable formulations. Its mild nature supports use in both rinse-off and leave-on products, contributing to smooth textures without heavy residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

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.

Benefits

Provides emollient effects to soften and smooth skin texture.

Functions as a surfactant for effective cleansing and light foaming action.

Acts as an emulsifier to create stable, uniform product consistencies.

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 gentle cleansing in daily washes or shampoos.	Those with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
People with normal to dry skin needing added slip and moisture retention.	People preferring completely natural or PEG-free formulations.
Users of lotions and creams desiring smooth, non-greasy application.	Individuals concerned about potential impurities in ethoxylated ingredients.

Safety Notes

Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews when properly purified.
Low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides

What is PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides?

A PEG-ethoxylated glyceride from caprylic/capric acids, used for emulsifying, cleansing, and softening in cosmetics.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally mild with low irritation reports, but patch test if sensitive to PEGs.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin without pore-clogging concerns.