What Is Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate?
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is a lightweight liquid made by joining butylene glycol, a small moisturizing molecule, with two medium-chain fatty acids called caprylic and capric acids. These acids come from plant oils such as coconut or palm. The result is a clear to pale-yellow ester that spreads easily on skin without leaving a greasy feel.
The cosmetic world began turning to this ingredient in the late 1990s when formulators wanted a softer alternative to heavier oils. By reacting purified butylene glycol with naturally sourced fatty acids under controlled heat and vacuum, chemists created a silky emollient that combined the slip of silicone with the skin-loving benefits of plant oils.
Today you will spot Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate in a wide range of products: daily moisturizers, hydrating masks, anti-aging serums, lightweight lotions, cleansing balms and even some sunscreens. Its pleasant skin feel and versatility make it a favorite for both budget and luxury brands.
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker earns its place in formulas thanks to two main roles
- Skin Conditioning: It softens and smooths the surface, helping skin feel supple and comfortable. By forming a light film it also reduces water loss so skin stays hydrated longer.
- Emollient: It fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells, creating a velvety finish that improves texture. This makes creams glide on easier and leaves a subtle, non-oily glow.
Who Can Use Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate
This ingredient plays nicely with nearly every skin type. Its light silky texture suits oily and combination skin because it adds softness without a heavy residue while its ability to trap moisture makes it helpful for normal and dry skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since it lacks common irritants, though anyone with a history of reactions to esters should be cautious.
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is typically sourced from coconut or palm oils rather than animal fats so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If you follow a strict plant based routine double-check that the finished product also avoids animal derived additives elsewhere in the formula.
The ingredient is not known to enter the bloodstream at meaningful levels, has no hormone disrupting evidence and is judged safe in leave-on and rinse-off products. That said those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should always ask their doctor before adding any new skincare just to be safe as individual circumstances can differ.
It does not increase sun sensitivity, so there is no special need to alter your normal SPF habits when using products containing it.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
How skin responds to Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate can vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.
- Transient redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Mild contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to esters or butylene glycol derivatives
- Temporary clogged pores or small breakouts in those extremely prone to acne
- Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eyes
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare or skin professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is a light ester that spreads thinly and absorbs quickly, so it is far less likely to clog pores than heavier plant oils or waxes. Its molecular structure keeps it fluid at room temperature, which means it is less prone to building up inside follicles. A few anecdotal reports link it to minor congestion in very reactive skin, but scientific data and formulator feedback place it firmly near the lower end of the scale.
Because of this low rating most people prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing the ingredient without major concerns.
Keep in mind that the full formula also matters: if Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate appears alongside rich butters or high percentages of fatty alcohols the overall product could still feel heavier than expected.
Summary
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is best known for conditioning skin and acting as an emollient. It accomplishes both by slipping into tiny spaces between skin cells, softening rough spots and forming a light barrier that slows water loss. This dual action leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated and comfortable without a greasy afterfeel.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, the ingredient has carved out a steady following among formulators who want a silicone-like glide from a plant-derived source. You will often see it in mid to high end moisturizers plus newer clean beauty launches that avoid silicones.
Current safety assessments find it non-sensitizing and unlikely to penetrate deeply, so it is considered safe for leave-on and rinse-off use at typical levels. As with any cosmetic ingredient skin can react unpredictably, so it is wise to carry out a small patch test when trying a product that contains it.