Caproic Acid
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: HEXANOIC ACID, 142-62-1, N-Hexanoic acid, N-Caproic acid, Capronic acid, 1-Hexanoic acid, Hexoic acid, Butylacetic acid, Pentylformic acid
Synthetic
Cleanser
Fragrance
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Acid
Clean
It is a colorless oily liquid smelling of cheese. It is a fatty acid found naturally in various animal fats and oils. Caproic acid is a medium chain triglycerides (MCT). MCTs are widely used for parenteral nutrition in individuals requiring supplemental nutrition and are being more widely used in foods, drugs and cosmetics; they are essentially non-toxic. It is safe for human dietary consumption up to levels of 1g/kg. (A3658).
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
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
Anti-Inflammatory
Brightening
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.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR