Pregnancy · Beauty

Is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Safe During Pregnancy?

The facts: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (uses CCT in similar products), Paula's Choice Calm Redness Relief Moisturizer, EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46.

TL;DR: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.

This is not medical advice. Always talk to your OB-GYN or midwife about your diet and products during pregnancy. A restriction in another country is not the same as a proven pregnancy risk — we show you the regulatory facts and the sources so you can have an informed conversation with your provider.
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Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: regulatory status at a glance

EU statusAllowed
US statusAllowed
Risk level (regulatory)low
Where it shows upThe Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (uses CCT in similar products), Paula's Choice Calm Redness Relief Moisturizer, EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

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.

Why is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride used in personal-care products?

Used as an emollient, skin conditioner, carrier for oil-soluble actives, and texture enhancer. It gives a lightweight, non-greasy finish. Also used as a natural preservative booster and antioxidant carrier.

What regulators have flagged about 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).

For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.

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Audited products that don't contain Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride.

Audited CleanClean dye-free
Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn
Lesser Evil
Zero artificial dyes or preservatives — none of the Red 40 or Yellow 5 found in conventional microwave popcorn. Non-GMO verified.
$4–6/bag
Audited CleanKid-safe
Organic Cheddar Bunnies
Annie's
Free from artificial colors including Red 40 and Yellow 6, which are required to carry warning labels in the EU. USDA Organic certified.
$5–7/box
Audited CleanEU-grade
Original Grain-Free Granola
Simple Mills
No BHA, BHT, or TBHQ preservatives — synthetic antioxidants restricted or banned in Japan and the UK. Made with whole almonds and seeds.
$9–11/bag
Audited CleanClean dye-free
Dark Chocolate Chips
Lily's
Sweetened with stevia instead of high-fructose corn syrup, which is restricted in many EU products. No artificial colors.
$6–8/bag
Audited CleanEU-grade
Chocolate Bark Crackers
Hu Kitchen
No TBHQ, no BHT, no artificial preservatives of any kind. Clean ingredients only — aligns with EU additive standards.
$7–9/box
Audited CleanPregnancy-safe
Simple Squares Almond Honey Bar
Simple Squares
No sodium nitrite, artificial colors, or preservatives of concern. 6 ingredients total — ideal for pregnancy-safe snacking.
$3–4/bar

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Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and pregnancy: common questions

Is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride banned anywhere?

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.

Should I avoid Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride during pregnancy?

That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.

What products contain Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride?

Commonly found in The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (uses CCT in similar products), Paula's Choice Calm Redness Relief Moisturizer, EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride.

What can I use instead of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride?

It is itself the gold-standard lightweight emollient; squalane is an alternative for those seeking an even more inert carrier. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.

Pregnant and not sure what's in your cart?

Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride or other ingredients restricted overseas.

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Other ingredients to check during pregnancy

Sources

  1. CIR Safety Assessment of Triethylhexanoin and related triglycerides — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
  2. EWG Skin Deep: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride — Environmental Working Group

Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.

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