Potassium Caprylate/Caprate
AKA “Potassium salt of caprylic and capric acid
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Potassium caprylate/caprate
AKA: Potassium salt of caprylic and capric acid
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Potassium Caprylate/Caprate is the potassium salt of a mixture of Caprylic Acid and Capric Acid Science: Functions: Cleansing, Surfactant - Hydrotrope Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Hydrotrope
Removes Impurities
Surfactant Hydrotrope
Removes dirt and impurities
Improves ingredient solubility
Traditional Use
Synthetic preservative derived from caprylic acid (found in coconut oil). Developed in the 20th century as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent for cosmetics and personal care products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR
Potassium Caprylate/Caprate — Duck Heart Ghost