Is Caprylyl Glycol Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Caprylyl Glycol is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (preservatives).
INCI name CAPRYLYL GLYCOL. Also called 1,2-Octanediol. CAS 1117-86-8.
Other names: 1,2-Octanediol, Octane-1,2-diol
Is Caprylyl Glycol banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator |
| CAS number | 1117-86-8 |
What is Caprylyl Glycol?
Caprylyl glycol (1,2-octanediol) is a multifunctional ingredient derived from caprylic acid (from coconut or palm kernel oil). It serves as a skin-conditioning agent, emollient, and preservative booster with direct antimicrobial activity.
Why is Caprylyl Glycol used in personal-care products?
Used alongside or as a replacement for traditional preservatives due to its antimicrobial properties. Also improves skin feel and acts as an emollient. Common in 'preservative-free' or reduced-preservative formulas.
Is Caprylyl Glycol dangerous? Documented risks
Caprylyl glycol is considered safe at cosmetic use concentrations. No carcinogenic, mutagenic, or endocrine-disrupting effects are documented. Mild skin sensitization is extremely rare. It is broadly compatible with sensitive skin and is accepted in many natural and clean beauty formulas.
Products that may contain Caprylyl Glycol
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming GelLa Roche-Posay
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60La Roche-Posay
- NYX Soft Matte Lip CreamNYX
- L'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Glycolic Acid SerumL'Oréal
- Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily CleanserNeutrogena
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle CleanserLa Roche-Posay
- Banana Boat Ultra Sport SPF 50+ Sunscreen LotionBanana Boat
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk SPF 100La Roche-Posay
How to avoid Caprylyl Glycol: safer alternatives
Ethylhexylglycerin or pentylene glycol as alternative multifunctional preservative boosters.
Frequently asked questions about Caprylyl Glycol
Is caprylyl glycol safe for sensitive skin?
Yes. It is well-tolerated and used in formulas for sensitive skin types. Its antimicrobial function helps keep preservative loads low.
Is caprylyl glycol a natural ingredient?
It is derived from caprylic acid, which comes from coconut oil. It requires synthetic processing but can be considered nature-derived and is accepted in some certified natural products.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Caprylyl Glycol or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related preservatives
Avoiding banned beauty ingredients? Check your food, too.
Sources
- EWG Skin Deep: Caprylyl Glycol — Environmental Working Group
- CosIng: Caprylyl Glycol — European Commission CosIng
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.