What Is Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate?
Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate is a plant based ingredient created by linking methyl glucose, a simple sugar usually sourced from corn, with lightweight fatty acids called caprylic and capric acids that come from coconut or palm oil. The result is a gentle, oil like substance that loves both water and oil, making it useful in many personal care formulas.
Chemists began exploring sugar-fat blends in the late 1980s as consumers started asking for milder, more naturally derived options. By the mid 1990s this particular ester mix proved especially good at softening skin while helping creams stay smooth so it was adopted by manufacturers of moisturizers and cleansers. Today it is produced through a straightforward esterification process: methyl glucose is reacted with a controlled mix of the two fatty acids under heat and vacuum, then purified to remove any leftover reactants.
You will most often see Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate in facial and body moisturizers, lightweight lotions, sheet and cream masks, anti-aging serums, sun care products, rinse off cleansers, makeup removers and conditioning hair treatments.
Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient brings several helpful properties to a formula
- Skin Conditioning: Forms a soft, breathable film that smooths dry patches, leaving skin feeling silky and supple
- Emollient: Adds light, non greasy moisture that helps fill in microscopic cracks on the skin surface, improving softness and overall comfort
- Emulsifying: Helps water and oil mix evenly, giving creams and lotions a stable, uniform texture that spreads easily without separating
Who Can Use Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate
This sugar-fat ester is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its lightweight emollient feel rarely clogs pores so even those prone to breakouts usually tolerate it well. Sensitive skin often benefits from its soothing texture because it lacks common irritants or fragrances.
The ingredient is sourced from plant-derived glucose along with coconut or palm fatty acids, and no animal by-products are involved in standard production. For that reason formulas featuring it are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the rest of the product avoids animal ingredients.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used on skin. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be completely sure.
Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate does not increase photosensitivity so there is no added need for sun precautions beyond normal daily SPF use. It also plays well with most other cosmetic actives, making it a flexible option in multi-step routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate differ from person to person. The points below outline possible, though uncommon, side effects when the ingredient is used at appropriate levels in finished products. Most people will not experience these issues.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin, usually transient
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to coconut or palm derivatives
- Exacerbation of acne if combined with highly occlusive ingredients in the same formula
If any discomfort or irritation develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate is a lightweight ester that spreads easily without forming a heavy film so it has little tendency to block pores. Its sugar part draws in moisture while the short caprylic and capric chains are quickly absorbed, leaving minimal residue. Because it is usually used at low to moderate levels and pairs well with non occlusive ingredients, the risk of pore clogging stays low.
Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without added concern.
As with any component, the overall formula matters: if the product also contains high levels of waxes or thick butters the clogging potential can go up, even though this single ingredient rates only a 1.
Summary
Methyl Glucose Sesquicaprylate/Sesquicaprate softens skin, locks in light moisture and keeps water and oil blended in a stable mix. The sugar side attracts hydration, the fatty side smooths rough spots and the balanced structure sits at the interface of water and oil to hold a formula together.
While not a buzzword ingredient seen on every label, it is steadily popular with formulators who want plant sourced, gentle helpers that feel elegant on the skin. You will notice it most in moisturizers, light lotions and cleansers that promise a silky after feel.
Current studies and marketplace use show it to be low risk for irritation or allergy, with only rare issues in those sensitive to coconut or palm sources. As with any new skincare product it is wise to do a small patch test before full use to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.