Capric Acid (also known as decanoic acid) is a saturated fatty acid derived primarily from coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is characterized by a medium-chain length, which allows it to be easily absorbed by the skin. In cosmetic formulations, Capric Acid serves multiple functions, including acting as an emollient, surfactant, and antimicrobial agent.
Its unique properties make it a valuable ingredient in a variety of personal care products, such as lotions, creams, and cleansers. Capric Acid contributes to skin hydration and helps improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations, making it a popular choice among formulators in the beauty industry.
CAS Number: 334-48-5
Molecular Formula: C10H20O2
Synonyms:
- decanoic acid, sodium salt
- sodium caprate
- decanoic acid
- sodium decanoate
Properties of Capric Acid
Chemical Identifiers
| EC Number | 206-376-4 |
| UNII | 4G9EDB6V73 |
| InChIKey | GHVNFZFCNZKVNT-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | CCCCCCCCCC(=O)O |
| IUPAC Name | decanoic acid |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C10H20O2/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10(11)12/h2-9H2,1H3,(H,11,12) |
Physical and Chemical Properties
Capric Acid appears as a white crystalline solid and has a distinctive rancid smell. It has a melting point of 31.5 °C. This fatty acid is soluble in a variety of organic solvents as well as in dilute nitric acid, and it is considered non-toxic. Capric Acid is commonly utilized in the production of esters, which are essential for creating fragrances and fruit flavors. Additionally, it serves as an important intermediate in the synthesis of food-grade additives.
| Property | Value |
| LogP | 4.09 |
| LogS | -3.44 |
| Odor | Rancid odor |
| Density | 0.893 – Less dense than water; will float |
| Viscosity | 4.30 mPa.sec (= cP) at 50°C |
| Color/Form | Crystalline solid |
| Solubility | less than 1 mg/mL at 64°F |
| Flash Point | 235°F |
| Boiling Point | 514 to 518°F at 760 mmHg |
| Melting Point | 88.7°F |
| Decomposition | When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. |
| Vapor Pressure | 1 mmHg at 257°F 5 mmHg at 287.6°F 760 mmHg at 515.1°F |
| Odor Threshold | Low: 0.0071 [mmHg] |
| Surface Tension | 25.0 mN/m (= dyn/cm) at 70°C |
| Heat of Combustion | -6,108.7 kJ/mol |
| Ionization Efficiency | Positive |
| Dissociation Constants | 4.9 |
| Kovats Retention Index | 1344 |
| Collision Cross Section | 146.87 Ų [M-H]- [CCS Type: DT; Method: single field calibrated with Agilent tune mix (Agilent)] |
| Other Experimental Properties | Acid value: 320 to 330 mg KOH/g |
Structural Properties
Capric Acid is a moderately complex compound with a molecular weight of around 172 grams per mole. It contains 12 heavy atoms and is fully canonicalized, meaning its structure is represented in a standard, unambiguous way. It has the ability to form hydrogen bonds, with one donor and two acceptors.
The compound is stable and has a specific surface area that interacts with its environment. It has a relatively simple structure with no isotopes and no stereocenters, meaning there is no specific three-dimensional arrangement for atoms or bonds in its structure.
| Property | Value |
| XLogP3 | 4.1 |
| Complexity | 110 |
| Exact Mass | 172.146329876 g/mol |
| Formal Charge | 0 |
| Heavy Atom Count | 12 |
| Molecular Weight | 172.26 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 172.146329876 g/mol |
| Isotope Atom Count | 0 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 8 |
| Compound Is Canonicalized | Yes |
| Hydrogen Bond Donor Count | 1 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count | 2 |
| Covalently-Bonded Unit Count | 1 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 37.3 Ų |
| Defined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Defined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
Uses of Capric Acid in Cosmetics
Functional role in cosmetics:
- Capric Acid is used as a emulsifying agent in cosmetics.
Other uses:
- Used as a cleaning agent.
- Also used in processing aids and additives and in surfactants.
Cosmetic Products Containing Capric Acid
Recent products using Capric Acid in their cosmetic formulations
- The Green Concept Óleo Facial Glow Booster – Nutrição + Antioxidação
- Hegde&Hegde Dermadew Face Wash
- Cow Brand Gyunyu Non Additive Makeup Cleansing Milk
- Dove Micellar Water Shower Gel Sensitive Skin
- Kose Cosmeport Suncut UV Perfect Essence
- Ree Derma Hot Oil Hair And Scalp Treatment
- Love beauty and planet Invigorating Detox Face Cleansing Gel
- FEM Organic Rose Water Underarm
- Kwailnara Cleansing Story Grape Seed Deep Cleansing Foam
- Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil
- The Saem Natural Condition Cleansing Foam Sebum Control
- The Saem Natural Condition Scrub Foam Deep Pore Cleansing
- Frudia My Orchard Mochi Cleansing Foam Mango
- Kwailnara Strawberry Milk Cleanser
- Shea Moisture Residue Remover Shampoo
- Elizavecca Clean Piggy Pink Energy Foam Cleansing
- Esfolio Red Ginseng Cleansing Foam
- Hyaloo Aqua Plus Foam Wash
Top companies using Capric Acid in their cosmetic products
- The Green Concept
- Hegde&Hegde
- Cow Brand
- Dove
- Kose Cosmeport
- Ree Derma
- Love beauty and planet
- FEM Organic
- Kwailnara
- Softymo
- The Saem
- Frudia
- Shea Moisture
- Elizavecca
- Esfolio
How Capric Acid Works in Formulations
Capric Acid is commonly used in cosmetics as an emollient, antioxidant, and antimicrobial agent.
Ideal Concentration and Benefits in Different Formulations
Skin Care Products
Capric Acid is widely used in moisturizers and creams for its soothing and hydrating effects. It is ideal for dry skin products, providing a smoother, more hydrated appearance.
- Concentration: 1%–5%
- Benefit: Helps improve skin texture and reduce dryness by maintaining moisture balance.
Hair Care Products
Incorporated into shampoos and conditioners for its ability to condition and moisturize hair. Contributes to a silky texture and improves manageability.
Soaps and Body Washes
Acts as a foaming agent and skin conditioner in cleansing products. Helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Soluble in organic solvents and compatible with most cosmetic ingredients, making it versatile for various formulations. Sensitive to high heat—requires careful temperature control during formulation. May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin; patch testing is recommended.
Stability and Shelf Life
Capric Acid is stable under normal storage conditions but should be stored properly to maintain its efficacy. Use sealed bottles or other airtight packaging to minimize exposure to air and prevent degradation.
- Shelf life: 12–24 months
- Best storage: Store in airtight containers, away from heat and light to preserve its antioxidant properties.
Formulation Challenges and Troubleshooting
Capric Acid presents several formulation challenges due to its potential for irritation and sensitivity to heat:
Heat Sensitivity
Capric Acid is sensitive to high temperatures, which can affect its stability in formulations.
Solution: Use low-temperature processing techniques to maintain its stability and efficacy.
Skin Irritation Potential
At higher concentrations or in sensitive individuals, Capric Acid may cause mild irritation.
Solution: Limit use to recommended concentrations and conduct patch testing before introduction to the market.
Solubility Issues
Capric Acid may precipitate out of solution if not properly solubilized.
Solution: Use appropriate solvents or solubilizers to ensure compatibility with other formulation components.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding the use of Capric Acid in cosmetics.
Solution: Consult regulatory guidelines for specific applications and regions.
Is Capric Acid Safe in Cosmetics?
Safety reports for Capric Acid are given below:
- Safety Assessment of Fatty Acids & Fatty Acid Salts as Used in Cosmetics. Download PDF
Regulatory Considerations for Using Capric Acid in Cosmetic Formulations
Few Regulatory considerations are to be taken into account before using Capric Acid as an ingredient. Given below is the list of those regulations:
FDA Requirements: Capric Acid is permitted as a food additive for human consumption, provided it is used in the minimum amount necessary for its intended effect and is of appropriate food grade.
FIFRA Requirements: Residues of Decanoic Acid (Capric Acid) are exempt from tolerance requirements when used as an antimicrobial treatment on food contact surfaces in food service operations and processing plants, at a concentration of up to 170 ppm per application.
REACH Registered Substance: Capric Acid is registered under REACH with active statuses updated on April 4, 2023, and December 7, 2018.
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status: Decanoic Acid (Capric Acid) does not have individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard.
The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals: Listed as decanoic acid in the Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals.
Capric Acid Side Effects
Capric Acid is a medium-chain fatty acid that can impact metabolic pathways significantly. Studies indicate that it can disrupt glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, leading to increased oxygen consumption in liver tissues. Additionally, it inhibits specific activities of respiratory chain complexes and creatine kinase in the brain, which may contribute to oxidative stress.
This oxidative stress is associated with impaired mitochondrial function, particularly in the brain, potentially exacerbating conditions like Medium-Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MCADD). The effects of Capric Acid on mitochondrial energy balance suggest a connection to neurological dysfunctions, highlighting the need for caution regarding its consumption, especially in individuals with metabolic disorders.
Potential Risks
Given below is the list of potential side effects associated with the use of Capric Acid in cosmetics:
- Colorectal cancer
- Metastatic melanoma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Perillyl alcohol administration for cancer treatment
- Eosinophilic esophagitis
Symptoms
Capric Acid (as a cosmetic ingredient) may cause irritation to the skin, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract, depending on the route of exposure. In rare cases, symptoms similar to Medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD) may appear, such as hypoketotic hypoglycemia and liver dysfunction, especially after prolonged fasting or illness.
In breast-fed infants, poor feeding can trigger early symptoms. While some individuals may remain asymptomatic, severe metabolic stress could potentially lead to serious outcomes.
Treatment
Treatment of acute MCADD involves prompt correction of hypoglycemia, rehydration, and addressing any underlying infection or stressor. Long-term management focuses on avoiding fasting and maintaining a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet, though this may not completely prevent metabolic crises or neurological complications.
Toxicity Data
The reported toxicity data for Capric Acid indicate an oral LD50 of 3730 mg/kg in rats and a dermal LD50 of 1770 mg/kg in rabbits, based on MSDS sources.
Health Effects
In MCAD deficiency (MCADD), octanoic acid (OA) and decanoic acid (DA) accumulate as primary metabolites, along with their glycine and l-carnitine derivatives. This inherited disorder of fatty acid oxidation typically presents in early childhood, though adult onset can occur.
Key symptoms include hypoglycemia, vomiting, lethargy, and encephalopathy, especially following fasting, infection, or other metabolic stressors.
Exposure Routes
The main routes of exposure for Capric Acid, as noted in safety data sheets (MSDS), include dermal (skin contact), eye contact, inhalation, and oral ingestion.
Human Toxicity Values
In human studies, Capric Acid showed a vasodilatory effect with an EC50 of 780 µM in umbilical artery tissue.
Carcinogen Classification
No indication of carcinogenicity (not listed by IARC).
Antidote and Emergency Treatment
For severe exposure cases, advanced airway management such as orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation should be considered, especially in patients who are unconscious, in severe respiratory distress, or showing signs of upper airway obstruction. Use positive-pressure ventilation (e.g., bag valve mask) if necessary.
Treat pulmonary edema and bronchospasm with appropriate drug therapy, including beta agonists like albuterol. Monitor cardiac rhythm and manage arrhythmias as needed. Begin IV fluids with D5W at minimal flow to keep the line open; use 0.9% saline or lactated Ringer’s if hypovolemia is present.
If hypotension persists despite adequate fluid volume, consider vasopressors, but watch for signs of fluid overload. For eye exposure, irrigate with assistance from proparacaine hydrochloride.
Environmental and Sustainability Impact
Capric Acid is a medium-chain fatty acid often used in cosmetics for its emollient and antimicrobial properties. Its use raises environmental and sustainability considerations:
Environmental Impact
- Water Pollution: Capric Acid is biodegradable and generally non-toxic to aquatic organisms. However, improper disposal in high concentrations may contribute to localized water contamination.
- Carbon Footprint: The production of Capric Acid typically involves the fractionation of coconut oil or palm oil, which can be sustainable if derived from certified sources.
Sustainability
The sustainability of Capric Acid depends on its sourcing and production methods.
- Raw Materials: Capric Acid is usually derived from coconut oil or palm oil, both of which can be sourced sustainably if managed correctly.
- Energy Use: Manufacturing requires moderate energy input. Cleaner energy sources and efficient processes can reduce its environmental impact.
- End-of-Life Impact: Capric Acid is biodegradable and breaks down naturally in the environment, posing minimal long-term ecological risks.
Biodegradability and Toxicity
Capric Acid is readily biodegradable and generally non-toxic to humans and the environment under normal use conditions.
Ammonia Toxicity: Not applicable. Capric Acid does not release ammonia or harmful byproducts during decomposition.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
For those seeking sustainable alternatives to Capric Acid, the following options may be considered:
- Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: A mixture derived from coconut oil, offering similar emollient properties with a potentially lower environmental footprint.
- Olive Oil Fatty Acids: Derived from olive oil, these fatty acids provide moisturizing benefits with a sustainable sourcing potential.
- Linoleic Acid: An omega-6 fatty acid with moisturizing properties and can be sourced from sunflower or safflower oil.
Alternatives of Capric Acid and Comparative Analysis
Given below is the list of alternative ingredients that can be used in place of Capric Acid in cosmetic formulations:
- Caprylic Acid
- Capric Triglyceride
- Lauric Acid
- Oleic Acid
- Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT Oil)
Comparative analysis of Capric Acid alternative ingredients:
| Ingredients | Strengths | Limitations | Efficacy | Cost | Stability | Compatibility | Safety |
| Caprylic Acid | Medium-chain fatty acid with antimicrobial and cleansing properties Enhances skin feel due to oily texture Good surfactant and emulsifier properties Used in formulations for cleansing, foaming, and emulsifying | Can be irritating at high concentrations Limited moisturizing effect compared to longer chain fatty acids | Moderate as antimicrobial, cleansing, and emulsifying agent | Moderate | High (stable in typical cosmetic formulations) | Good with oils, surfactants, and emulsifiers | Generally safe but may cause irritation in sensitive skin |
| Capric Triglyceride | Derived from capric acid and glycerin, acts as an emollient Provides moisturizing and antioxidant benefits Improves product texture with silky, non-greasy feel Widely used in creams, lotions, and hair care products | Not a primary antimicrobial or cleansing agent Higher cost compared to simple fatty acids | High as an emollient and skin conditioning agent | Moderate to high | High | Excellent in oil-based and emulsified formulations | Generally safe and well tolerated |
| Lauric Acid | Medium-chain fatty acid with strong antimicrobial properties Effective cleansing and foaming agent Contributes to skin barrier support and conditioning | Can be more irritating than capric acid at higher concentrations Less soluble in water, requiring emulsifiers | High as antimicrobial and cleansing agent | Moderate | High | Good with surfactants and emulsifiers | Generally safe but may cause irritation in sensitive skin |
| Oleic Acid | Longer-chain fatty acid with excellent emollient and moisturizing properties Improves skin barrier function and softness Widely used in creams and lotions | Less antimicrobial activity compared to capric acid Can be comedogenic for some skin types | Moderate as emollient and skin conditioning agent | Low to moderate | Moderate (prone to oxidation if not stabilized) | Good with oils and emulsifiers | Generally safe |
| Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT Oil) | Mixture of caprylic and capric acids esterified to glycerin Excellent emollient and skin conditioning properties Lightweight, non-greasy texture Good oxidative stability | Not a primary antimicrobial agent Limited cleansing ability | High as emollient and moisturizer | Moderate | High | Excellent in various cosmetic formulations | Generally safe and well tolerated |
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