What are capric/caprylic triglycerides and how do they benefit the skin?

Capric/caprylic triglycerides are a type of fatty acid derived from coconut oil. They have gained popularity in functional skincare due to their ability to nourish and hydrate the skin while providing a range of other benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the constituents, processing, uses, and benefits of capric/caprylic triglycerides in functional skincare.

Constituents and Processing

Capric/caprylic triglycerides are made up of a mixture of capric acid (C10) and caprylic acid (C8) esters of glycerol. These fatty acids are extracted from coconut oil through a process known as esterification, which involves reacting the fatty acids with glycerin to form triglycerides.

The resulting capric/caprylic triglycerides are colourless, odourless, and have a light, non-greasy texture. They are highly stable and resistant to oxidation, making them an ideal ingredient for skincare products.

In the Pantheon Lab we prefer capric/caprylic triglycerides as the base oil for our herbal and resinoid extracts.  It is especially useful for resinoids as the extraction process uses heat and capric/caprylic triglycerides will not degrade during the process.  The neutral nature of the oil means the extracts are not adulterated with unwanted constituents as can be the case with other botanical base oils.  It results in a clean, potent extract with a useful shelf-life.

Uses in Functional Skincare

Capric/caprylic triglycerides are a versatile ingredient in skincare formulations due to their excellent emollient and moisturising properties. They penetrate the skin quickly and deeply, leaving it feeling soft and supple. Capric/caprylic triglycerides are also non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores, making them suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.

In addition to their moisturising properties, capric/caprylic triglycerides also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the skin from environmental damage and reduce redness and irritation. They also enhance the absorption of other active ingredients, making them a valuable ingredient in skincare products.

Benefits of Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides in Functional Skincare

1. Moisturising: Capric/caprylic triglycerides are highly moisturising, penetrating the skin quickly and leaving it feeling soft and supple.
2. Non-Comedogenic: Capric/caprylic triglycerides are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores, making them suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.
3. Antioxidant: Capric/caprylic triglycerides have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from environmental damage and premature ageing.
4. Anti-inflammatory: Capric/caprylic triglycerides have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce redness and irritation in the skin.
5. Enhances Absorption: Capric/caprylic triglycerides enhance the absorption of other active ingredients, making them a valuable ingredient in skincare products.

References:

1. Nobile V, Michelotti A, Cestone E, et al. Antioxidant and skin moisturizing effects of a natural hydroxycinnamic acid-rich cream: double-blind, randomized clinical trial. Drug Res (Stuttg). 2015;65(12):654-658. doi:10.1055/s-0035-1558117
2. Kanti DS, Prasad R, Bhatia A, et al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of curcumin accelerated the cutaneous wound healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Int Immunopharmacol. 2014;20(2):322-330. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2014.03.006
3. Mukherjee S, Date A, Patravale V, Korting HC, Roeder A, Weindl G. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):327-348. doi:10.2147/ciia.