Caprylyl Glycol vs Sodium Benzoate (Cosmetic): which is worse?

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.

What is Sodium Benzoate (Cosmetic)?

Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics, personal care products, and food. In cosmetics it is most effective at acidic pH (<5.5), where it converts to the active benzoic acid form.

Documented risks

Caprylyl Glycol: 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.

Sodium Benzoate (Cosmetic): Sodium benzoate is considered safe for cosmetic use by the CIR and EU SCCS at regulated concentrations (≤2.5% in EU cosmetics). It is a weak sensitizer and can cause urticaria (hives) in some sensitive individuals. At low cosmetic concentrations, systemic risk is negligible — it is rapidly metabolized and excreted. The concern about sodium benzoate + ascorbic acid forming benzene is food-specific and not relevant to most cosmetic applications.