What Is Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride?
Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride is a blend of three fatty acids—caprylic (C8), capric (C10) and stearic (C18)—chemically linked to glycerin. These fatty acids are usually sourced from plant oils such as coconut or palm kernel oil. By reacting purified glycerin with these fatty acids under heat and vacuum, chemists create a stable, odorless and colorless ester that feels silky on the skin.
The ingredient appeared in cosmetics in the 1970s when formulators wanted lighter alternatives to petrolatum. Its long shelf life, smooth texture and mildness quickly made it popular in moisturizers and makeup. Today it is found in face creams, body lotions, cleansers, sunscreens, lip balms, foundations, masks and many anti-aging products because it gives formulas a soft glide and helps dissolve oil-soluble actives.
Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves as a skin conditioning agent. It spreads easily, forming a thin breathable layer that softens and smooths the skin. The emollient coat helps trap moisture, reduces flaking and leaves a non-greasy finish, so products feel rich yet light. Its neutral scent and high stability let it support fragrances and sensitive actives without going rancid, which keeps creams fresh longer and improves overall product performance.
Who Can Use Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride
Because it is light yet moisturizing, Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride works for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin. People with very oily or highly acne prone skin can still use it, but they may prefer lower concentrations or gel formulas since richer creams could feel heavy.
The ingredient is typically derived from coconut or palm kernel oil so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Those who avoid palm for sustainability reasons can look for brands that certify a responsibly sourced supply chain.
Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is widely used in food and cosmetic products and has no known hormonal activity. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with a doctor to be sure it fits their personal needs.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there is no evidence that it affects photosensitivity. It also has no known conflicts with common actives like retinol or vitamin C which lets formulators pair it with many routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but they are uncommon in routine use when the finished product has been formulated correctly.
- Mild irritation such as redness itching or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Clogged pores or breakouts in individuals who are extremely acne prone
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where a person is sensitive to fatty acid esters
- A heavy or greasy feel when layered with several other occlusive products
If you experience any of these effects stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5
Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride is made of medium- and long-chain fatty acids that absorb quickly and leave little residue. Most studies and formulator reports place similar triglycerides at a 1, while the added stearic portion edges the score up slightly, so a 2 feels realistic. In practical use it is far less likely to block pores than heavy butters or straight oils.
This means the ingredient is generally acceptable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, especially when it sits low on an ingredient list or is paired with lightweight textures.
Keep in mind that comedogenicity also depends on the whole formula, how much of the ingredient is used, and personal skin factors like sebum level or climate.
Summary
Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride conditions skin by forming a thin moisturising layer that smooths texture, cuts flakiness and boosts softness without feeling greasy. Its stable ester structure keeps products from going rancid which supports long shelf life and allows actives like antioxidants or fragrances to stay fresh.
The ingredient has become a staple in creams, lotions, sunscreens and makeup because it offers silky glide at a modest cost and comes from renewable plant oils. It is not the flashiest name on a label but formulators reach for it often due to its reliability.
Safety data from cosmetic and food use show a low risk of irritation or allergy so most people can use it with confidence. That said, every skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this or any other unfamiliar ingredient.