Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride vs Petrolatum: which is worse?

What is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride?

Caprylic/capric triglyceride (CCT) is a mixture of medium-chain triglycerides (caprylic acid C8 and capric acid C10) derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. It is a light, odorless, dry-feeling emollient and carrier oil widely considered one of the most versatile cosmetic ingredients.

What is Petrolatum?

Petrolatum is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum refining. It forms an occlusive barrier on the skin surface, sealing in moisture and protecting against external irritants. It has been used in skincare since 1872.

Documented risks

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Caprylic/capric triglyceride is one of the safest cosmetic ingredients with essentially no known safety concerns. The CIR has reviewed medium-chain triglycerides and confirmed their safety. It does not clog pores (comedogenicity rating 1–2/5), is suitable for all skin types including acne-prone, and is used in the most sensitive formulations. No carcinogenic, mutagenic, or endocrine-disrupting effects are known. It is suitable for vegan formulations (plant-derived).

Petrolatum: Fully refined white petrolatum (as used in cosmetics) is considered safe by the FDA and CIR, and is an FDA-approved OTC skin protectant. The EU restricts petrolatum unless full refining history is known due to concerns about polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in inadequately refined grades. Cosmetic-grade petrolatum in the US undergoes extensive refining that removes PAHs. It does not penetrate the skin, is non-comedogenic in pure form, and has no evidence of systemic toxicity or endocrine disruption at cosmetic use.