Polyglyceryl-3 Caprylate is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used as an emulsifier and deodorizing agent. It is the ester formed from the reaction of caprylic acid, a medium-chain fatty acid, with polyglycerin-3. This ingredient is particularly valued for its ability to enhance the texture of cosmetic formulations and for its antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce unpleasant odors.

Chemical Composition and Structure

This ester combines the properties of polyglycerol-3, known for its ability to stabilize emulsions, with caprylic acid, which is recognized for its antimicrobial and deodorizing functions. The ester structure of Polyglyceryl-3 Caprylate makes it effective in forming stable emulsions and enhancing the application of products on the skin.

Physical Properties

Polyglyceryl-3 Caprylate typically appears as a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid at room temperature. It is soluble in oils and has limited solubility in water, making it suitable for a variety of cosmetic formulations, both aqueous and anhydrous.

Production Process

Synthesis: Polyglyceryl-3 Caprylate is synthesized through an esterification process where polyglycerol-3 reacts with caprylic acid. The reaction is usually facilitated by the use of catalysts and controlled temperature conditions.
Purification: After synthesis, the product undergoes purification to remove any impurities or unreacted materials, ensuring a high degree of purity and effectiveness.
Quality Control: The final product is subjected to rigorous testing that includes analysis of purity, stability, and performance to ensure that it meets the standards of the cosmetic industry.

Applications

Cosmetic Products: Used in creams, lotions, and deodorant products, where it acts as an effective emulsifier and contributes to the deodorant properties of the product.
Deodorants: Thanks to its effectiveness in countering odors caused by bacteria, it is often used in deodorants to improve skin freshness and hygiene.
Skin Care: Employed in skincare formulations for its antimicrobial properties, helping to keep the skin clean and reducing the presence of bacteria.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Polyglyceryl-3 Caprylate is considered safe for use in cosmetic products, with a good skin tolerance profile and low potential for irritation. It is derived from renewable resources and is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for cosmetic formulations. It is important to use this ingredient within the recommended concentrations to avoid potential allergic reactions.

INCI


Surfactant - Emulsifying agent. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable and are used to soothe or soften the skin and emulsify, so they need a specific, stabilising ingredient. This ingredient forms a film, lowers the surface tension and makes two immiscible liquids miscible. A very important factor affecting the stability of the emulsion is the amount of the emulsifying agent. Emulsifiers have the property of reducing the oil/water or water/oil interfacial tension, improving the stability of the emulsion and also directly influencing the stability, sensory properties and surface tension of sunscreens by modulating the filmometric performance.

Deodorant agent. When substances that give off an unpleasant odour are included in cosmetic formulations (typical examples are methyl mercaptan and hydrogen sulphide derived from garlic), deodorants attenuate or eliminate the unpleasant exhalation. It helps counteract the formation of bad odours on body surfaces.
Synonyms:

CAS: 108777-93-1