Caproic Acid

Caproic Acid

AKA “HEXANOIC ACID, n-Hexanoic acid, n-Caproic acid, Capronic acid, 1-Hexanoic acid, Hexoic acid, Butylacetic acid, Pentylformic acid”

Acid

Ingredient Facts

Caproic acid

AKA: HEXANOIC ACID, N-Hexanoic acid, N-Caproic acid, Capronic acid, 1-Hexanoic acid, Hexoic acid, Butylacetic acid, Pentylformic acid

Acid · Cleansing · EWG: 1

Synthetic

Cleanser

Fragrance

Emulsifier

Plant Oil

Acid

Clean

A naturally derived fatty acid that gently cleanses and helps emulsify formulas, keeping products stable and effective on skin.

Solubility 5 to 10 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992)

Formula

C6H12O2

Mol. Weight

116.16

CAS #

142-62-1

Form

Liquid

State

Caproic acid appears as a white crystalline solid or colorless to light yellow solution with an unpleasant odor. Insoluble to slightly soluble in water and less dense than water. Contact may severely

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.

Perfuming

Added for scent. Can be natural or synthetic. Common irritant and allergen — one of the top reasons people react to products.

Cleansing

Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.

Emulsifying

Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.

Surfactant Cleansing

Antioxidant

Protects skin from free radical damage caused by UV, pollution, and stress

Anti-Inflammatory

Brightening

Evens out dull skin tone for a more radiant, lit-from-within look

Traditional Use

A short-chain saturated fatty acid present in goat's milk and coconut oil, with traditional use in dairy-based skincare. Isolated for use in modern cosmetic formulations as a preservative and antimicrobial agent.