Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate?

Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate is a lab made ingredient that joins fatty acids from coconut or palm kernel oil with six units of ethylene oxide. The result is a clear to pale yellow liquid that mixes easily with water and oil. It first gained traction in the late 1980s when brands were looking for milder alternatives to traditional detergents. Because the fatty acids are short to medium chain, the final material offers good skin compatibility and a light feel.

Production starts with caprylic and capric acids, the naturally occurring fats found in coconut and palm kernel oils. These acids are reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled process that links an average of six ethylene oxide units to each fatty acid chain. This step turns a water avoiding fat into an ingredient that can sit comfortably between water and oil, making it valuable in cosmetic emulsions.

You will commonly spot Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate in facial cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, micellar waters, makeup removers, sheet mask essences and sprayable lotions. It is favored when formulators want a non greasy texture that still softens skin and helps other ingredients blend smoothly.

Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The main role of Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate in cosmetics is as an emulsifier. By lowering the surface tension between water and oil phases it keeps formulas stable so they do not split over time. A stable emulsion means your cream spreads evenly, delivers active ingredients more predictably and feels consistent from the first pump to the last.

Who Can Use Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate

This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all skin types including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin. Its lightweight non occlusive nature makes it a good pick for acne-prone complexions that dislike heavy films. Extremely dry skin might need an additional richer emollient since Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate itself does not offer deep nourishment.

Since the fatty acids come from coconut or palm kernel oil and no animal derived materials are required during synthesis the ingredient is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full product label to confirm other components also meet personal ethical standards.

Current safety data shows no known reproductive or developmental risks linked to topical use so products containing Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate are generally viewed as safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with a healthcare professional before use just to be safe.

The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no reported issues with photosensitivity.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate can vary from person to person. The points below represent potential side effects that remain uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal levels in well formulated products.

  • Mild skin irritation
  • Temporary redness or stinging on already compromised skin barriers
  • Contact allergy in individuals with a pre-existing sensitivity to polyethylene glycol derivatives
  • Eye irritation if a high concentration accidentally gets into the eyes

If any negative reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5
Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate is highly water soluble, creates little to no oily residue and is used at low percentages, all of which limit its tendency to clog pores. The short to medium chain fatty acids are quickly rinsed or absorbed and the attached PEG units keep the molecule more hydrophilic than typical plant oils. Because of these properties most formulators view it as practically non comedogenic.

Suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

As with any emulsifier, the final product formula matters. Heavy occlusive ingredients paired with Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate may still trigger congestion for some users even though this individual component is low risk.

Summary

Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate is an emulsifier that steadies water and oil so creams, lotions and cleansers stay smooth and effective. Its balance of fatty acids and six ethylene oxide units lets it sit at the water oil interface where it lowers surface tension, spreads easily and helps other actives reach the skin evenly.

It enjoys steady but niche popularity in micellar waters, lightweight moisturizers and gentle cleansers where formulators need a clean finish without heaviness. While not as famous as classic emulsifiers like polysorbates its mildness keeps it in demand for sensitive skin formulas.

Current research shows Peg-6 Caprylate/Caprate has a strong safety profile with low irritation risk and no data linking it to major health concerns. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this ingredient to ensure personal compatibility.

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