What Is Myricetin Sesquicaprylate?
Myricetin Sesquicaprylate is a blend of mono- and diesters created when myricetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid found in berries, tea and the bark of certain trees, is bonded to caprylic acid, a medium-chain fatty acid most often sourced from coconut or palm oil. By linking myricetin to caprylic acid, chemists give the water-loving flavonoid a lipid-friendly tail, making it easier to disperse in the oil phase of creams and lotions.
Interest in plant flavonoids grew in the 1990s when their antioxidant potential became clear. Formulators soon realized that pure myricetin was hard to keep stable in modern emulsions, so esterification with caprylic acid was adopted to improve solubility, shelf stability and skin compatibility. Production involves controlled esterification where purified myricetin reacts with caprylic acid in the presence of an activating agent, then the resulting esters are purified, yielding an amber, oil-soluble liquid.
Because of its conditioning and sensory profile, Myricetin Sesquicaprylate is typically added to leave-on products such as anti-aging creams, daily moisturizers, night balms, silky facial oils and hydrating masks. It is also found in premium body lotions and specialized eye treatments where formulators want a light, non-greasy feel with added antioxidant support.
Myricetin Sesquicaprylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulations this ingredient is valued for one primary function.
As a skin conditioning agent, Myricetin Sesquicaprylate helps maintain the skin’s softness, smoothness and flexibility while delivering a light emollient touch that does not feel heavy or occlusive.
Who Can Use Myricetin Sesquicaprylate
This conditioning ester suits most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and mature skin, thanks to its light feel and non-greasy finish. People with very oily or acne-prone skin can usually tolerate it as well because it is less heavy than many classic emollients, though anyone extremely prone to clogged pores may prefer to use it sparingly.
The ingredient is synthesized from plant-derived myricetin and caprylic acid that is typically sourced from coconut or palm oil, with no animal-based intermediates, so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and current cosmetic safety assessments have not flagged it as a reproductive toxicant. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with a qualified doctor before use.
Myricetin Sesquicaprylate is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Standard daytime sunscreen use is still recommended as part of a good skincare routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Myricetin Sesquicaprylate can vary. The following points outline potential side effects, although these outcomes are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Temporary dryness or tightness if layered with multiple exfoliating or alcohol-rich products
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of flavonoid or coconut oil derivative sensitivity
- Minor breakout or pore congestion in users already prone to cosmetic acne
If you experience any of the effects listed above discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Myricetin Sesquicaprylate is built from caprylic acid esters, which are lightweight and usually absorb quickly without leaving a heavy film. Their molecular size and branched structure make them less likely to block pores compared with thicker plant butters or long-chain oils. Because of this the ingredient carries only a slight chance of clogging, giving it a low comedogenic score of 1.
Suitable for most acne-prone or breakout-prone users thanks to its light texture and rapid absorption.
Keep in mind that overall comedogenicity always depends on the full formula and the user’s individual skin chemistry, so results can vary from product to product.
Summary
Myricetin Sesquicaprylate is primarily a skin-conditioning agent that softens, smooths and maintains flexibility in the skin. The caprylic acid portion delivers a silky emollient feel while the myricetin core offers added antioxidant support, helping the skin feel comfortable and protected.
It is still a niche ingredient that appears mostly in higher-end moisturizers, facial oils and eye creams rather than mass market lines, yet formulators appreciate its balance of stability, compatibility and sensory elegance.
Current safety data shows a very low risk profile with rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic product it is smart to perform a small patch test before full application just to be on the safe side.