PEG-3 Dicaprylate/Caprate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 3 Dicaprylate Caprate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hydro-.omega.-hydroxy-, diesters with octanoic and decanoic acids (3 mol EO average molar ratio)
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic ester developed in the 20th century as an emollient and solvent for cosmetic use. Created to provide smooth texture and enhance product absorption without a significant traditional use history.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR