Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (MCT Oil)

Product Appearance:

• Form: Clear, thin, oily liquid.
• Color: Colorless.
• Odor: Odorless.
• Texture: Very light, smooth, and non-greasy. It has a “thin” feel that lacks the heavy, sticky drag of raw coconut oil or olive oil.

Product Solubility:

• Oil: Fully soluble in oils and organic solvents.
• Water: Insoluble.

Possible Usage Rate:

• Lotions & Creams: 2% – 10%
• Lip Balms & Lipsticks: 5% – 20%
• Massage Oils: 20% – 100%
• Melt & Pour Soap: 1% – 2% (to add moisturizing properties without softening the bar too much)

Product Description

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a mixed ester of glycerin with caprylic ($C_8$) and capric ($C_{10}$) fatty acids derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. It is called “Fractionated” because the long-chain fatty acids (like Lauric acid) have been removed, leaving only the medium-chain triglycerides. In formulation, it is the ultimate neutral carrier. It is used to improve the spreadability of a product and provide a silky (but not “silicone-like”) feel. Because it is fully saturated, it is oxidatively stable, meaning it will never go rancid—a huge advantage over natural “virgin” oils.

Possible Uses/Applications:

• Carrier for Actives: Delivering oil-soluble vitamins and botanical extracts.
• Color Cosmetics: Acting as a dispersing agent for pigments in foundations and lipsticks.
• Lightweight Body Lotions: Balancing the texture of heavy butters for faster absorption.
• Professional Massage Oils: Providing a long-lasting, non-greasy glide.

Formulation Guidelines

• The “Universal Solvent”: It is an excellent carrier for oil-soluble vitamins (like Vitamin E), botanical extracts, and essential oils. It doesn’t interfere with the scent or color of your actives.
• Texture Balancer: Use it to “lighten” a formula that contains heavy butters (like Shea or Cocoa). It helps the heavy fats penetrate the skin faster.
• Dispersing Agent: It is the preferred liquid for dispersing physical sunscreen filters (Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide) and pigments in makeup.
• Heat Stability: Highly resistant to heat; add it to the oil phase and heat as needed.

Safety Guidelines

• Edible Quality: It is so safe that it is frequently used in food and pharmaceutical coatings.
• Non-Sensitizing: It is extremely rare for someone to have a reaction to this oil, making it perfect for “hypoallergenic” ranges.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Its shelf life is virtually indefinite (up to 5 years) if kept away from contaminants.

Please Note:

All the products supplied are for cosmetic use (cosmetic formulations) – for external use only.