What Is Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride?
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride is a blend of fatty acids joined to glycerin. The fatty acids come from natural oils such as coconut or palm and include caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid and stearic acid. When these fatty acids link to glycerin they form a smooth lightweight oil that feels almost dry to the touch.
Cosmetic chemists started using this ingredient in the 1970s when demand grew for plant based alternatives to mineral oil. By separating fatty acids from coconut or palm oil then reuniting them with glycerin in a controlled way, they created a stable liquid or semi solid ester with a silky slip. This process is called esterification and happens in large stainless steel reactors under gentle heat. Afterward the mixture is filtered and purified so it meets cosmetic grade standards.
Because it is light nonsticky and resistant to oxidation, Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride shows up in many product types. You can find it in facial moisturizers, body lotions, cleansing balms, sunscreens, makeup primers, lipsticks, hair conditioners, anti aging creams and wash off masks. Its versatility lets formulators use it in both water in oil and oil in water emulsions.
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ester brings several advantages to skincare and makeup formulas.
- Skin conditioning – Softens and smooths the skin surface so it feels supple and comfortable
- Emollient – Creates a thin protective film that helps trap moisture, giving a silky after feel without heaviness
- Skin protecting – Adds a barrier that shields skin from environmental dryness and minor irritation which can support the skin’s natural resilience
Who Can Use Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride
Thanks to its lightweight cushiony texture this ingredient suits most skin types including normal, dry and sensitive. Oily or very acne prone skin usually tolerates it well because its molecular structure is less likely to clog pores than heavier plant oils, yet extremely blemish prone users may still prefer to patch check formulas that contain high levels of any triglyceride.
The raw material is typically sourced from coconut or palm oil not animal fat, so products using it are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If a fully plant based supply chain matters to you look for brands that confirm sustainable palm or coconut sourcing.
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride has no known hormonal activity and is not absorbed in significant amounts, so it is considered a low risk choice for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear all skincare products with a qualified healthcare provider.
The ester does not increase photosensitivity. It can actually help disperse UV filters evenly when included in sunscreens, but it does not replace the need for a dedicated SPF product.
No special storage or usage warnings are required beyond keeping the product closed and away from excessive heat.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride vary between individuals. The points below list potential side effects, though most people will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used at cosmetic levels in well formulated products.
- Mild redness or irritation on highly sensitive skin
- Temporary stinging if applied to broken or compromised skin
- Rare pore congestion in individuals prone to comedonal acne when used in very rich leave on products
- Allergic contact dermatitis in users with a specific fatty acid or triglyceride allergy (extremely uncommon)
If you experience persistent redness, itching or breakouts after applying a product containing this ingredient discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 / 5
This ingredient is built from medium and long chain fatty acids that have been restructured into a lightweight ester. The altered structure makes it less able to pack tightly inside pores compared with raw coconut or cocoa butter, yet the presence of myristic and stearic chains means a small clogging risk remains. For most skin types it behaves as a low to moderate comedogenic material.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in well balanced formulas, especially when used at typical levels of 2-15 percent.
Formulation quality, the total oil phase and individual skin chemistry all influence real-world pore clogging potential.
Summary
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride conditions skin, works as an emollient and reinforces the surface barrier by forming a light breathable film. These benefits come from the smooth ester link between glycerin and fatty acids, which lets the ingredient glide across skin, fill in rough spots and slow water loss.
Its silky feel, oxidation stability and plant origin have made it a staple in modern skincare, sunscreens and makeup, though it still shares shelf space with newer silicone alternatives.
Overall safety is high, with irritation or allergy reported only rarely. As with any cosmetic ingredient a quick patch test is wise when you try a new product containing this triglyceride.