murphyCapric Acid
AKA: Decanoic acid, 334-48-5, N-Decanoic acid, N-Capric acid, Decoic acid, Decylic acid, Caprinic acid, N-Decylic acid, 1-Nonanecarboxylic acid
Synthetic
Cleanser
Fragrance
Emulsifier
Acid
Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils through fractionation and hydrolysis processes. Isolated through saponification or direct hydrolysis of the triglycerides present in these plant-based oils.
Capric acid is a member of the series of fatty acids found in oils and animal fats. The names of Caproic, Caprylic, and Capric acids are all derived from the word caper (Latin: 'goat'). These are colorless light yellowish transparent oily liquids with unconfortable smells. These are used in organic synthesis, manufacture of perfume, medicine, lubricating grease, rubber and dye.
Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 64 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C10H20O2
Mol. Weight
172.26
CAS #
334-48-5
Form
Liquid
State
Decanoic acid is a white crystalline solid with a rancid odor. Melting point 31.5 °C. Soluble in most organic solvents and in dilute nitric acid; non-toxic. Used to make esters for perfumes and fruit
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 777)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.01–4%
Rinse-off0.0036–0.2%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2016 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR