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
Plant Oil
Clean
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
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester developed in modern cosmetics as a lightweight emollient and skin conditioning agent. Designed to provide spreadability and absorption benefits similar to natural oils but with improved stability.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR