Sodium Caprylate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: SODIUM OCTANOATE, 1984-06-1, Sodium n-octanoate, Octanoic acid, Sodium salt, Sodium;octanoate, Caprylic acid sodium salt, Sodium octoate, Natrium octanoat
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the following ingredients are safe in the present practices of use andconcentration described in the safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing, which may be basedon a QRA...Sodium Caprylate...
Formula
C8H15NaO2
Mol. Weight
166.19
CAS #
1984-06-1
State
Other Solid; Liquid; Dry Powder
Functions
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
Surfactant Emulsifying
Improves Elasticity
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
A synthetic salt derived from caprylic acid, a medium-chain fatty acid naturally found in coconut oil. Developed as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in the mid-20th century for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR