Propylheptyl Caprylate

AKA: Cetiol Sensoft, 2-Propylheptyl caprylate, 2-propylheptyl Octanoate, Octanoic acid, 4-methyl-2-pentylbutyl ester, PROPYLHEPTYL CAPRYLATE [INCI]
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
OriginSynthesized from caprylic acid and heptyl alcohol, both derived from coconut or palm oil fatty acids. Produced through esterification, where the alcohol and acid combine under catalytic conditions to form the ester.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the alkyl esters, listed subsequently, are safe in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating.
Formula
C18H36O2
Mol. Weight
284.50
CAS #
868839-23-0
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Locks In Moisture
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️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 623)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
2 studies / 1 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions moderate (CIR 623)
Eye Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating / reactions slight (CIR 623)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on2–13%
Rinse-off1%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2012 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR
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