What is it?
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is a liquid non-ionic surfactant made from vegetable derived fatty acids and glucose. I often refer to it as C/C Glucoside since it’s shorter!
INCI
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
Appearance
A viscous, pale yellow liquid.
Usage rate
up to 40%
Scent
Characteristically soapy/detergent-y.
Active Surfactant Matter
60%
pH5.5–6
Charge
Non-ionic
Solubility
Water
Why do we use it in formulations?
It is gentle and contributes great lather to body washes, hand washes, face washes, and anything else liquidy that we want to add bubbles to! It’s also a good solubilizer—much better than many other surfactants. This means we can incorporate essential and fragrance oils into products like hand washes without the need for another solubilizer, like Polysorbate 20.
Do you need it?
If you’re only going to buy one liquid, non-ionic surfactant, I’d recommend this one.
Strengths
Good lather + solubilizing.
Weaknesses
Harder to find than coco glucoside.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is quite unique as it is often used as both a surfactant and a solubilizer, so you’ll need to replace both functions. The alternative I typically suggest is coco glucoside for the cleansing/lathering with added polysorbate 20 and/or polysorbate 80 to solubilize whatever the Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside was solubilizing. You’ll also need to lower the pH of your final product if you use coco glucoside as it has a much higher pH than Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside.
How to Work with It
Since it is liquid it can be used in cold-processed recipes, but it can be heated in the heated water phase if needed. Avoid vigorous stirring/agitation so you don’t work up too much lather.
Storage & Shelf Life
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside should last for two years.
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is the only acidic non-ionic surfactant I’ve managed to find.
Recommended starter amount
250mL (8fl oz)
Where to Buy it
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon
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