Ingredient review
Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride
INCI: CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC/MYRISTIC/STEARIC TRIGLYCERIDE
A gentle, non-greasy emollient that softens skin and helps other ingredients absorb better.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mixture of fats (triglycerides) derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. In skincare, it works like a lightweight oil that spreads easily, makes skin feel smooth and soft, and helps lock in moisture without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. It's often used in lotions, creams, and lip products to improve texture and feel.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A blend of triglycerides made from caprylic, capric, myristic, and stearic fatty acids, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. It is a clear, odorless liquid at room temperature.
How it works
Sits on the skin's surface to fill gaps between skin cells, reducing water loss and creating a smooth, soft feel. It also helps other active ingredients spread evenly and absorb more effectively.
Pros
Lightweight and non-greasy
Unlike heavier oils, this triglyceride absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling soft without a sticky or oily film, making it ideal for daytime use and for oily skin types.
Strengthens skin barrier
By filling in gaps between skin cells, it helps reduce transepidermal water loss (moisture escaping from skin) and supports a healthy barrier function.
Cons and cautions
Potential sustainability concerns
If sourced from palm oil, it may contribute to deforestation and habitat loss unless certified sustainable. Look for RSPO-certified versions if this matters to you.
Very rare sensitivity
A tiny number of people with extreme sensitivity to coconut-derived ingredients may experience mild redness or irritation, though this is uncommon.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin looking for a lightweight moisturizer
- Those with oily or combination skin who want hydration without clogging pores
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to coconut or palm kernel oil derivatives (extremely rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
This ingredient is considered very safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is well-tolerated by most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
Triglycerides like this are well-studied as safe and effective emollients. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar mixed triglycerides and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics at current levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 20% depending on product type
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally (EU, US, Japan) with no concentration restrictions. Considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Body lotions, Lip balms, Hair conditioners, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- May be derived from palm oil; look for RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) certification to support sustainable sourcing.
Good to know
- This ingredient is very similar to Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride but includes longer-chain fatty acids for slightly richer feel.
- It is often used in 'water-free' or anhydrous formulas like balms and oil cleansers.
Common questions
What is Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mixture of fats (triglycerides) derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. In skincare, it works like a lightweight oil that spreads easily, makes skin feel smooth and soft, and helps lock in moisture without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. It's often used in lotions, creams, and lip products to improve texture and feel.
What does Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride do in a beauty product?
Sits on the skin's surface to fill gaps between skin cells, reducing water loss and creating a smooth, soft feel. It also helps other active ingredients spread evenly and absorb more effectively.
Is Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride safe for most people?
This ingredient is considered very safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is well-tolerated by most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Capric Caprylic Myristic Stearic Triglyceride?
Individuals with a known allergy to coconut or palm kernel oil derivatives (extremely rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.