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The facts: Caprylyl Glycol 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 Caprylyl Glycol on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator.
TL;DR: Caprylyl Glycol is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator |
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.
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.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Caprylyl Glycol 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.
Caprylyl Glycol is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
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.
Commonly found in First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Caprylyl Glycol.
Ethylhexylglycerin or pentylene glycol as alternative multifunctional preservative boosters. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Caprylyl Glycol or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Caprylyl Glycol.
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